5 day trip in vancouver

5 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 5 Day Itinerary

Finding things to do in 5 days in Vancouver doesn’t have to be hard.

Of course, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a well-traveled guest, you’ll probably need some local help to get it done.

Let’s get right into my 5 day Vancouver itinerary and get your vacation planned!

How I Planned This 5 Day Trip to Vancouver

I grew up in Vancouver so I like to think I know a little bit about how to plan a trip.

This has inspired me to create a five-day itinerary for Vancouver, aiming to showcase the city’s top attractions while providing a peek into the everyday life of Vancouverites.

Whether you’re in search of outdoor adventures in Vancouver , keen on discovering cultural landmarks , or eager to taste the finest local cuisine , this guide is designed for you.

Sorry! A quick one : We’re just two brothers trying to compete with Tripadvisor, so some links here may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, we may earn a commission . The revenue helps keep our site ad-free and gets us one step closer to doing this for a living – so thank you so much .

So, what can you expect from this 5 day guide?

My 5 day itinerary features 2-3 major attractions each day , including a journey through one of Vancouver’s unique neighbourhoods, complemented by recommendations for lunch, dinner .

I’ve also organized everything to minimize travel time and maximize your enjoyment.

What to Do in Vancouver: 5 Day Itinerary

a visitor looking at coastal first nations artwork at the museum of anthropology at ubc in vancouver bc canada

Day 1: Understanding Vancouver Culture & History

If I want to get my hand on Vancouver’s cultural pulse, I’m starting my day at the Museum of Anthropology to delve into the history of British Columbia’s First Nations people .

Of course, it’s about 20 minutes from downtown so if you need a closer alternative, the Bill Reid Gallery is a fine plan b.

I’d also check out Vancouver Art Gallery to see works from both local and international artists . From here, I’d walk along the famous Robson Street and check out Vancouver’s retail scene.

Later, I’m walking over to Gastown and hopping on the Lost Souls of Gastown Tour to get my Vancouver history degree! Via macabre stories of a violent, troubling past .

Finally, dinner at one of Gastown’s best restaurants is surely in order – it’s the culinary heart of the city .

➡️ Tip : The patio at the VAG is one of Vancouver’s hidden gems – a coffee there breaks up the day perfectly.

grouse mountain patio restaurant with bird's eye view of vancouver harbour

Day 2: Discover Vancouver’s Outdoor Wonders

There’s no way you should miss Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , an exciting outdoor attraction featuring a 450-foot-long rope suspension bridge , treetop adventures, and cliffside walkways.

From here, it’s just a short trip over to Grouse Mountain , the city’s outdoor playground , which offers skiing in winter and a variety of summer activities.

capilano suspension bridge and grouse mountain tour banner for 2024

I’d grab a beer on the patio and soak in the views, or go visit the mountain’s local grizzly bears Grinder and Coola.

Then, you can wrap up your day in North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay , a unique seaside marketplace with an array of shopping and dining options.

➡️ Tip : Tap & Barrel Shipyards (at Lonsdale) is one of the best local beer patios + a seaside view.

a fruit vendor puts out baskets of fruit at granville island in vancouver bc canada

Day 3: Explore Granville Island + Killer Whales

On day three of this 5 day trip to Vancouver I wanna start you off at Granville Island , a vibrant marketplace known for its lively artisan community and fresh produce, seafood, and handcrafted goods .

If I had only two places to shop, I’d splash out on Lee’s Donuts and the candied salmon from Longliner Seafoods .

Here, you can also sift through Vancouver’s top artisan stores like Make , Granville Island Brewing , and the Wickannanish Gallery .

From here, it’s easy to start the afternoon with one of Vancouver’s best whale watching tours to see orcas, humpback whales, and bald eagles .

➡️ Tip : A dinner at Sandbar is a great way to discover Vancouver’s elite Pacific seafood offerings.

Day 4: Stanley Park & Gourmet Dining

It was hard to leave this 5 day itinerary activity until day 4, but here we finally get to legendary Stanley Park – a sprawling public park with picturesque trails, beaches, and wildlife .

If the weather is good, I’m strolling along the Vancouver Seawall , a scenic 22 km paved path with stunning views of the city skyline and mountains.

If it’s not, or if I’m traveling to Vancouver with kids (or I just like fish!) I’m gonna do the Vancouver Aquarium , home to over 50,000 animals, including beluga whales and sea otters .

Finally, have dinner in Yaletown , where some of Vancouver’s finest restaurants reside, such as Tasty Indian Bistro , Cioppino’s and the Blue Water Cafe .

➡️ Tip : To see the city as it was meant to be seen, rent a bike or e-bike downtown and cycle the entire seawall – leaving it a Science World .

the gastown steam clock chiming in gastown vancouver bc canada

Day 5: Tour Vancouver’s Diverse Neighborhoods

In five days in Vancouver, I wouldn’t dream of not including authentic neighbourhoods that locals go to when they’re hungry, thirsty, and looking for fun.

I’d start with a coffee at Soccavo on Commercial Drive , also known as Vancouver’s Little Italy , famous for its eclectic mix of cafes and shops.

Check out Arts Off Main for access to the finest art collective in the city – if you’re looking for unique local gifts this is where it’s at.

Also, you can head over to the trendy boutiques and vintage stores along Main Street , between 26th and 16th.

Cap off the day heading to Chinatown , North America’s second largest such neighbourhood – ideally with a dinner at Chinatown BBQ .

➡️ Tip : A wild card could be going out to the Golden Village in Richmond, a food and shopping area that’ll make you feel like you’re in Asia.

5 Days in Vancouver Itinerary FAQ

What to do in 5 days in vancouver.

When visiting Vancouver for five days you should check out attractions like the Museum of Anthropology, Grouse Mountain, and Capilano Suspension Bridge plus explore Granville Island, Yaletown, and Commercial Drive.

How much spending money for 5 days in Vancouver?

Priceoftravel.com’s Vancouver backpacker rating is $107.27 USD (or $144.11 CAD), so for the basics you should expect to pay about $720.55 for five days in Vancouver.

Naturally, if you want to stay at more expensive hotels (or eat top notch meals) you’ll be looking at closer to $200.00 a day.

Can you spend 5 days in Vancouver?

Yes, spending five days in Vancouver is a sweet spot of sorts, as it allows you to visit all of the major attractions as well as fit in visits to attractions outside the city centre.

Is five days in Vancouver enough?

Yes, five days in Vancouver is enough if you’re looking to check off the major attractions, visit the city’s most unique neighbourhoods, and sample some of the area’s best food.

Vancouver 5 Day Itinerary

So, 5 day trips from Vancouver don’t have to be hard, do they?

I hope I’ve covered all the highlights and shown you a few local secrets to keep you moving.

If you’ve got any more questions, feel free to drop me a line in the comments below!

digital orca with coal harbour towers at dusk in vancouver bc canada

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Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links – which means, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through a link.

Welcome to Vancouver, British Columbia!

As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver is a great getaway destination in the Pacific Northwest, when you just want to run away from the sweltering heat that hits the rest of North America in the summer.

Vancouver is well-known as a city surrounded by beautiful mountain backdrops and numerous water activities in the summer.

There’s something for everyone in this amazing city of British Columbia, whether you want to explore nature, eat your way through the city, or just relax on the beach. There is much to see and do.

I had the opportunity to visit Vancouver, Canada for 5 days in September; stopping by some of the most popular spots, like Stanley Park, Chinatown, and Granville Island.

This 5 day Vancouver itinerary will bring you to explore many well-known neighborhoods in Vancouver such as Gastown, Downtown Vancouver, West End, Kitsilano, and Richmond.

Let’s get started!

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links – which means, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through a link.

Table of Contents

Getting Around Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver is located just 30 minutes from the Vancouver International Airport. Vancouver’s city center is very walkable to roam around.

You also have easy access to most of the attractions in Vancouver by public transportation.

I recommend getting a Compass card to save 10% off public transportation! Otherwise, you can also use a contactless credit card for Tap to Pay.

If you have the budget, the fastest way to get around outside Vancouver downtown is by rental car . Driving or taking an Uber will take you to most of the attractions outside Vancouver in less than 30 minutes!

Where to Stay in Vancouver

I recommend staying in the city center, as that is the prime central spot to start exploring the city. You will have plenty of attractions and things to do in all four directions.

Hostels & Budget Hotels:

Samesun Vancouver – Stay in a hostel in the middle of all the action

YWCA Hotel – Budget private rooms in downtown Vancouver

Barclay Hotel – Budget hotel option on Robson St

Mid-Luxury Hotel Stays:

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver – Luxurious 5-star hotel with in-house spa

Blue Horizon Hotel – Indoor pool with hot hub, steam room

The Listel Hotel Vancouver – Loved my stay here! Popular Ramen Danbo across the street.

Vancouver Itinerary Overview | Map

Day 1 | granville island.

Arrive in Vancouver, BC.

After setting up base, head to Granville Island . It’s a nice small island that you can stroll around for hours.

Browse the many creative shops on Granville Island. Admire indigenous art pieces in the Eagle Spirit Gallery. If you like stationeries, Paper-Ya is for you.

Enjoy a seafood meal or cheap delicious eats at the Granville Island Public Market . The pot pies at A La Mode are m-mmm (though I do prefer it being a little warmer). If you’re not sure what to eat, leave the decisions to the expert on this food walking tour around Granville Island Public Market.

Stroll Granville Island and browse through the shops

Wanna bike on the water? That’s right! You heard me correctly. Walk to the BC Water Bikes for some fun water activity in the False Creek while taking in the sunset. Water bike rental season is only during the summer months, from June to September. Make sure to book in advance.

Have dinner at the nearby Kitsilano neighborhood. If you like Indian food, check out Indian Oven .

Day 2 | Stanley Park and Gastown

Wear your most comfortable shoes because there’s going to be a lot of walking!

Grab breakfast at Pappa Roti and try their fresh soft buns. Their bestseller is the Pistachio bun! For the adventurous, you can also order their mystery stuff buns.

Ink Squid hot dog from Chung Chin RIce Hot Dog

If you want a snack, get some Korean hotdogs on the way to the Stanley Park at Chung Chin Rice Hot Dog . Go crazy topping up their Korean hotdogs with the sauces to make it extra special!

Stanley Park & Vancouver Seawall

One of the main activities in Stanley park is going around the Vancouver Seawall . You can either walk around the Vancouver Seawall or ride a bike. If you can bike, I will definitely recommend doing so. There are plenty of bike rental shops right before entering Stanley park. Enjoy a guided ride with a Stanley Park bike tour .

Not counting the time it will take for photos, just walking the whole Seawall path will take at least 2 hours!

Some not to miss spots along the Vancouver Seawall are the totem poles, Brockton Point Lighthouse , and Nine O’clock gun.

The Nine O’clock gun might seem pretty boring at first (it’s also locked inside a cage). However, if you’re lucky, you might come across a staff loading gunpowder into the cannon for the daily 9pm show. The cannon is set to go off automatically at 9pm, so don’t be surprised to hear a loud bang!

For a beautiful backdrop for a photoshoot, head to the Stanley Park Pavilion .

If you love aquariums, don’t forget to put down the Vancouver Aquarium in your Stanley Park walk. It is open all days from 10am-5pm. Last entry at 3:15pm.

For those of you craving a swim, there are plenty of beaches in Stanley Park; Second Beach & Third Beach. Nearby in the West End, you also have the English Bay Beach . If you’re here in late July, don’t miss the fireworks at English Bay for the annual Celebration of Lights event.

Canada Place & Gastown

Stop by Canada Place in downtown Vancouver for some lovely views of North Vancouver across the water.

Have some fun at the FlyOver Canada in Canada Place , an immersive 4D simulation flight that flies you over Canada. Purchase your tickets in advance!

Want a real bird’s eye view of Canada? Check out the 360° views of the city at Vancouver Lookout observation deck.

Make your way to Gastown , the original settlement that became what is Vancouver BC today.

Walk around and you’ll soon stumble across a group of tourists snapping pictures of a steam clock on their phone. Some people say the famous Gastown Steam Clock is overrated, but I find the visible mechanics inside the steam clock fascinating.

Two blocks from the Gastown Steam Clock, you have the Gassy Jack statue , an homage to the founder of Gastown, “Gassy” Jack Deighton.

Go on a walking tour and discover Prohibition Vancouver or feast on a Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour .

For the fearless and the curious, check out the Vancouver Lost Souls of Gastown Walking Tour .

If the weather is warmer, you can enjoy the public performances of singing musicians.

Experience the unique flavor of dry noodles at Kokoro Tokyo Mazesoba by indulging in their specialty dish, the mazesoba.

Caution. Avoid walking on E Hastings St (especially the area between Gastown and Chinatown). The area is flooded with homeless people.

Day 3 | Photo Spots around Vancouver BC

Dress your best since day 3 is all about photo ops!

Start off the day with a hearty brunch from Cafe Medina. This place is crowded, so make your reservations ahead of time.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Walk toward Chinatown and visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden . It’s a Ming dynasty style garden home, one of the first of its kind to be built outside China. This place is perfect for a photoshoot.

If you’re more interested in food than photo taking, then join this walking tour led by a chef around Chinatown !

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Next, let’s go to the VanDusen Botanical Garden , which is easily accessible by bus. My favorite photo shoot spots are the giant red chair and the bridge by the water.

Have fun getting lost in the maze!

Have fun at giant red chair in the VanDusen Botanical Garden

Next to the visitor center, there’s also a gallery full of purchasable art pieces by very talented artists. Do check it out even if you’re not thinking of buying, because the art there is amazing!

Queen Elizabeth Park

Last (for the day!), a short walk away from the VanDusen Botanical Garden is the Queen Elizabeth Park . It is on a hill, so there’s your workout for the day.

Being a public park, the Queen Elizabeth Park definitely exceeded my expectations.

If you’re here before 3pm, check out the Bloedel Conservatory ( grab tickets here ) for exotic birds and plants. Otherwise, take some golden hour pictures and enjoy the sunset.

There are tons of restaurants near Queen Elizabeth Park on Main St.

Day 4 | UBC Area & Richmond

Start the day at UBC (University of British Columbia).

Museum of Anthropology

Visit the Museum of Anthropology . I love walking through the multiversity galleries, where it showcases thousands of artifacts from around the world. Don’t forget to pull open the drawers to see more!

When you’re done exploring indoors, walk outside and find their outdoor exhibits and totem poles.

Don't forget to visit the outdoor exhibits at the Museum of Anthropology

For a small fee, you can enter the Nitobe Memorial Garden , a traditional Japanese stroll garden and teahouse.

Looking for some adrenaline rush? Check out the UBC Botanical Garden and their Greenheart Treewalk where you walk across suspended walkways between treetops.

If you want to see a skeleton of Canada’s largest blue whale, head to the Beaty Biodiversity Museum .

For dinner, there are plenty of Asian restaurants in Richmond.

If you like Vietnamese food, I highly recommend Banh Mi Tres Bon. Try their mini savory crepes!

The Richmond Night Market is one of the best things to do in Vancouver during the summer!

Have fun taking photos in the infinity rooms at Moon & Back Gallery .

Banh Mi Tres Bon - Crab & Tomato Vermicelli Soup

Day 5 | Shopping & Museums

Sadly, today’s the last day in Vancouver.

Check out of your hotel. If you’re exploring or shopping nearby, you can leave your luggage in your hotel’s storage room.

Do some souvenir shopping on Robson Street while exploring downtown Vancouver before leaving for the airport.

On Robson Street, there are two souvenir stores: Grand Maple Gifts and Canadian Crafts.
OOMOMO Japan Living is all you need to buy affordable Japanese houseware and goodies.
Aritzia is one of my favorites if you’re looking for great quality and fashionable women’s apparels (it does come with a hefty price tag).

If you prefer outlets, there’s one right by the Vancouver International Airport. Happy shopping!

Check out the museums close to downtown Vancouver if your flight home is in the evening (or you simply want to save your wallet from a shopping spree).

Vancouver Art Gallery

The largest public art museum in western Canada with local and touring art exhibits.

Open 10am-5pm (except Tuesday & Friday 12pm-8pm)
If you come on Tuesday nights 5-8pm, you can enter with a donation (minimum $5).

Roedde House Museum

A restored late-Victorian house turned museum for Victorian enthusiasts, depicting life in the Victoria era.

Open Wed-Fri & Sun 1-4pm

Science World

Interactive science museum with an IMAX theater. Great for kids.

Open 10am-5pm daily

You can’t travel to Canada and not try poutine right? Take a last detour to Fritz European Fry House and order their poutine (top it up with pulled pork or any other topping of your choice)!

Grab your luggages (and shopping bags) and head to the airport.

Allocate extra time before your flight if you’re heading to the US. Because not only do you have to go through security checks, you also have to clear the US customs and immigration.

Safe flight!

Extra Days? More Activities in Vancouver

Got some extra days in Vancouver? Well, lucky you!

You can do a road trip crossing the Lions Gate Bridge to North Vancouver.

Test out your courage by walking across treetops on the Capilano suspension bridge . If you do not have a car, you can still visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park by taking the free shuttle bus from Vancouver.

Take in the scenic views from the top of Grouse Mountain . With activities for all four seasons, no matter when you’re visiting Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is something you can put down on your itinerary.

You can also pay a visit to Vancouver’s North Shore. There are many markets and shops in the area. Places to visit include The Shipyards, Waterfront Park, and Lonsdale Quay Market. Walk around for a beautiful view of the city skyline.

While the itinerary includes food recommendations, for my full list of where to eat in Vancouver (plus what to order) check out my Vancouver food guide !

Feel free to switch around the days as you see fit. Day 4 and 5 are mainly indoor activities so it’s great for rainy days.

Day 4 and 5 are mainly indoor activities so it’s great for rainy days. Some attraction sites are not open on certain days, so keep in mind the opening hours when planning.

Ready to visit?

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How To See Vancouver With A 5-Day Itinerary

Canada Place and downtown Vancouver from Burrard Inlet

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a popular west coast city for conferences and tourism alike. Having lived here for a few decades, we can’t wait to return home after our travels. If you’re visiting for a short time, this Vancouver 5-day itinerary was made for you.

Vancouver’s combination of urban and natural features makes it a popular travel destination. It has hosted major events like the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 1986 World Expo, and appeared in many films and television shows.

Whether you are headed to Vancouver for business or pleasure, you’ll find it to be a ‘world-class’ city. Vancouver is both vibrant and picturesque.

This post will help you make the most of your time in Vancouver. Some recommended points of interest. can move around depending on your itinerary. Read on for more details on how to discover all of Vancouver’s beauty and charm!

There are many great hotels in the downtown core that are close to everything. However, hotel rates are like most major cities, so be prepared to pay a premium the closer you are to downtown.

Images of Vancouver, Canada: Canada Place in downtown, the Olympic Cauldron, Vancouver Lookout and grizzly bear at Grouse Mountain

Before You Go (“Day 0”)

“Day 0” is the time before or shortly after you get to Vancouver. It could be the day you get into the city or when you are doing your packing.

But you will probably be tired when you first arrive in Vancouver, which could cut a day off your itinerary.

If you came from the United States or another country, change your money before you settle in. Although, most businesses gladly accept U.S. dollars.

So, relax and make sure you have everything. Now is a good time for a quick, easy meal at Tim Horton’s if you need one. “Tim’s,” as most locals call it, is a Canadian icon with classic food for a quick bite.

Tim Horton's iconic cups of coffee and tea

Getting around is easy in downtown Vancouver. You can even take advantage of the popular Hop-on, Hop-off buses to take you to many of the local attractions. The cost is reasonable, and they are good for the day.

While you unpack, catch a weather report on a local news station. Alternatively, just do a quick check with the weather app on your phone. Vancouverites know the weather can change quickly.

We want a perfect 5-day itinerary. But it rains a lot in Vancouver, so be ready. Invest in a poncho, and if the worst should happen, there are lots of rainy-day activities in Vancouver . Also, many hotels offer courtesy umbrellas for their guests.

Day 0 is a great time to start planning your 5-day Vancouver itinerary. You probably already noticed that there’s a lot to do in Vancouver. While your hotel concierge and Canada Place are great places to start, this article also has a few suggestions.

Day 1: Scope Out The City

If your hotel is downtown, spend the first day of your itinerary exploring the city. Learn what’s nearby.

Vancouver's Olympic Cauldron used during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games

It could be the Vancouver Art Gallery, English Bay, the Olympic Cauldron, or Robson Street for an amazing shopping experience. Bring your smartphone with you to help with navigation.

However, if you prefer ‘old-school,’ pick up a map that you can circle things on wherever you can. Your first full day in Vancouver should be about discovery.

While you are exploring, pick up a map of Vancouver’s Skytrain system. Many tourist sites are accessible via train, bus, or ferry. If you will be using public transport a lot, buy a reloadable Compass Card at a SkyTrain station.

It’s fun to explore, but you may want a better view of the city. The Vancouver Lookout provides fantastic aerial views and has a revolving restaurant too.

The dazzling view is worth it at any time of day! And the best part; is your ticket is good all day. So, come back in the evening to enjoy the best views of Vancouver at night.

Its revolving restaurant, Top of Vancouver, is classy and expensive, so consider having dinner there. You aren’t just paying for the view but also some of Vancouver’s finest seafood.

Eat at this revolving restaurant at least once, especially if you’re on a business trip.

There are also other ways to see Vancouver from above, such as by helicopter or seaplane. Tell your friends back home that you went on a seaplane; they’ll be impressed!

Please pay attention to time limits when booking your aerial tour. They can range from minutes to many hours.

For those who want to check Butchart Gardens off your bucket list, you can fly to Vancouver Island for the day to make it possible. The seaplanes leave from Coal Harbor downtown.

Aerial sightseeing is sometimes combinable with other attractions. So, look for bundles that offer a floatplane and Capilano Suspension Bridge , for instance.

However, tours can be expensive, and it’s easy to exceed your travel budget quickly!

If Day 1 is rainy, FlyOver Canada shows visitors the beauty of Canada without worrying about the weather. FlyOver Canada is a 4-D cinematic experience complete with scents, wind, and sounds from the great outdoors.

This attraction is great if you have kids and may inspire some points on your 5-day itinerary. FlyOver Canada is in Canada Place, which also contains a bunch of helpful tourism information and other facilities.

It is also very easy to find with its distinct peaked roof. Start your trip off right with all the maps you will need-even if it’s a rainy day!

Day 2: Whale Watching/Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver is located along the Pacific Coast, and it shows everywhere you look. Your walk the previous day probably took you past plenty of seafood places. Why not see the animals that live in this coastal city’s waters?

Several boat companies offer whale watching expeditions, usually featuring orca whales (think Free Willy ). Depending on who you ask, the best time to see whales is either April-October or May-October.

Whale watching on a zodiac in Vancouver BC

Make sure you get a boat that guarantees whale sightings, just in case. Vancouver offers one of the best west coast whale watching experiences.

The whales might be seasonal, but the aquarium isn’t. Located in beautiful Stanley Park, Vancouver Aquarium is the largest in Canada. The facility boasts a marine mammal rehabilitation center, penguins, local marine fauna, and sea otters.

The place around the aquarium, Stanley Park, is almost worth another header. You can do anything you like in the park: swim, kayak, walk trails, play tennis, bike, or rollerblade.

Bill Reid orca outside the Vancouver Aquarium

The park also has several sculptures, including many pieces made by First Nations artisans. You could easily make a day out of Stanley Park and the aquarium if you have good weather.

The park is a short 5 to 10-minute drive or walk from downtown Vancouver. The combination is also a great consolation prize if you do not see any whales.

Day 3: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park/Grouse Mountain

Midway through your Vancouver 5-day itinerary, you’re going to head to Vancouver’s most popular tourist attractions. While it’s busy, it’s a must-do for visitors and locals alike.

A marvel of engineering, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is the most interesting nature walk you can go on. The namesake bridge is 140 meters long and hangs 70 meters above the Capilano River in North Vancouver.

The Cliffwalk at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Both engineers and nature lovers will be impressed with this attraction. The park also has other areas with different kinds of bridges. The “Cliffwalk” bridge setup is for those who like living on the edge.

But for those who like to get even closer to nature, “Treetop Adventures” allows visitors to walk 30 meters above the forest floor on a series of smaller suspension bridges.

Treetop Adventures at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver

On your way to Suspension Bridge Park, you may notice several attractions centered around Grouse Mountain.

Grouse Mountain is one of the best skiing spots in all of Canada and has plenty to do. It is only an 8-minute drive away from downtown Vancouver.

Along with being one of the best ski resorts, according to InsideVancouver , Grouse Mountain is amazing in summer. Many of the activities below make this mountain a major attraction from May through October.

Start at the main lodge, then take a sky tram to other adventures. You probably guessed that Grouse Mountain has excellent hiking, and you would be right! In fact, the north shore mountains offer some of the best hiking in the Vancouver .

If you want to combine your vacation with a workout, the Grouse Grind has you covered. Nobody will accuse you of skipping leg day after hiking up 2800 steps.

If hiking was not enough, get deeper into the mountaineering culture with a lumberjack show and ziplining. Walk amongst the treetops with the Mountain Ropes Adventure, which accommodates many different levels of athleticism.

Finally, don’t miss your chance to see a bald eagle and more in the “Birds in Motion” show. And if anyone asks if you saw bears in Canada, Grouse Mountain has a pair of orphaned grizzlies.

Two orphaned grizzly bears on Grouse Mountain

The bears, Grinder and Coola, came from different areas but were both abandoned as cubs. Book in advance to see them eat breakfast!

Day 4: Take A Food (Or Film) Tour

Like the United States, Canada is multicultural, and Vancouver has an interesting mix. According to World Population Review, Vancouver is roughly 46.2% European, but it boasts substantial Asian populations as well.

This means it has plenty of tantalizing options for food tours, no matter what your tastes may be. If you walked down the right streets on Day 1, you may have noticed Vancouver’s impressive Chinatown.

They also have a Little Italy, Greektown, and Punjabi Market. If you have a favorite food, you can probably find it in Vancouver.

This cultural diversity has yielded wine and beer tours, food tours in Chinatown, vegan food tours, and more!

Whatever your dietary or time requirements, the perfect food tour is just a phone call away. By booking a tour , you can eat your way through Vancouver and enjoy multiple culinary flavors.

Some of these tours will take you a bit off the beaten path into Gastown and Granville. The antiquated feel of Gastown will be a stark contrast to the futuristic atmosphere of downtown Vancouver.

There is a part of Vancouver for everybody, and a well-rounded food tour will help you find yours. Please remember that these food tours take hours.

Some of them are multi-day experiences covering different areas of the city. But whatever your palette may be, there is a food tour for it.

Alternatively, did you know that many of the shows and movies you love were filmed in Vancouver? Juno , 50 Shades of Grey , Man of Steel , both Percy Jackson movies, and Breaking Dawn Part 2 were all filmed there! You can schedule film tours online.

Vancouver is called “Hollywood North” for a reason. Vancouver also has haunting tours and historic tours if you are curious about the name “Gastown.”

Stanley Park has horse-drawn carriage tours; tempting if you have spent the entire day on your feet. Whatever your taste as a tourist is, Vancouver can serve something up for your 5-day itinerary.

Day 5: Granville Island

There’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot to buy souvenirs for your friends and family. Look no further than Granville Island Market for those last-minute purchases.

This small island has over 300 shops, including a fresh food market and many artisans. If the weather is nice, Granville Island is the ideal place for lunch outside.

Get cranberry sandwich bread, fresh meat, vegetables, and fish, and dine along False Creek. You can see all of Vancouver’s skyline from Granville Island!

But there is more than just food at this Vancouver hot spot. The area is known for its artist workshops and one-of-a-kind boutiques. It’s the kind of place where if you want something unique, you can find it.

If the weather doesn’t look good for an outdoor market, there are plenty of other shops in the area. The Net Loft is like a giant mall with nothing but artisan shops.

You’ll find a lot of First Nations artists here; Haida art is unique to the Pacific Northwest. We could go on and on about the shops on Granville Island. It’s easy to get overwhelmed!

To narrow things down, here’s a quick list of some tourist-friendly things for sale:

Maple syrup. It wouldn’t be Canada without it!
Fresh seafood. You might not think this can travel, but some vendors will ship it.
Bread. One seller has a unique cranberry bread that goes excellently with turkey.
Art. Whether you want trinkets to share back home or something bigger, there’s something for you!
Liquor. Ask if the seller ships!
Toys. Along with a robust food market, Granville Kids Market is great if you are traveling with children.

Speaking of kids, if you are traveling with children in the summer, Granville Island is a must-stop. Along with amazing food and shops, Granville Island has a free water park!

The park is only open from mid-May to early September, so get in while you can.

Although this list is flexible, Granville Island might be a perfect end to your Vancouver 5-day itinerary. Open your wallets and go!

Get those last few souvenirs and take in a view of the whole city before heading back to your room.

Final Thoughts

If you are visiting Vancouver because you have a cruise to Alaska, arrive early to take in the sights. There are so many things to do in Vancouver that you can easily fill five days.

The 5-day itinerary we made is just the tip of the iceberg. We didn’t even cover most of the museums and other attractions in Vancouver!

Take it from a local Vancouverite, it’s an incredible city I know you’ll love. With so many sights to see and places to go, you won’t be satisfied with just one trip.

Write down those “I should have seen that!” moments for your next visit to Hollywood North. After your epic 5 days on the west coast, you will be plotting more Vancouver itineraries to see what you missed!

Scenes of Vancouver, BC - Canada Place and downtown, the Olympic Cauldron and the Treetop Adventures at Capilano Suspension bridge

Privacy Overview

5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: A Friendly Guide to Exploring the Best of British Columbia’s Coastal City

If you’re planning to visit Vancouver and want to make the most of your five days, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll give you a detailed itinerary of what to do in Vancouver for five days.

Here’s a list of the top activities you can do during your stay in Vancouver:

Explore Stanley Park
Visit Granville Island
Take a walk around Gastown
Go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Visit the Vancouver Aquarium
Enjoy the beaches
Go shopping on Robson Street
Visit the Museum of Anthropology
Check out the art scene

Stanley Park is a must-visit destination in Vancouver. It’s a beautiful park that covers over 1,000 acres and is home to many attractions, including the Seawall, Vancouver Aquarium, and the Totem Poles. You can rent a bike or walk around the park and enjoy the fresh air.

Granville Island is another popular destination in Vancouver. It’s a small island that’s home to a public market, artisan studios, restaurants, and a brewery. You can spend hours exploring this unique area of Vancouver.

Gastown is a historic area of Vancouver that’s known for its cobblestone streets and Victorian architecture. It’s also home to many trendy restaurants and shops.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-see attraction in Vancouver. It’s a beautiful park that’s home to a suspension bridge that’s 450 feet long and 230 feet high. You can also take a treetop adventure and explore the park’s many trails.

The Vancouver Aquarium is another popular attraction in Vancouver. It’s home to over 50,000 animals and is a great place to learn about marine life.

Vancouver is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. English Bay Beach and Kitsilano Beach are two of the most popular.

Robson Street is a great place to go shopping in Vancouver. It’s home to many high-end stores and trendy boutiques.

The Museum of Anthropology is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the First Nations people of British Columbia.

Finally, Vancouver has a thriving art scene, and there are many galleries and museums to visit. The Vancouver Art Gallery is a great place to start.

By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Vancouver in just five days.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to include in a 5-day Vancouver itinerary?

Some of the top attractions include:

Stanley Park: This 1,000-acre park is a must-visit attraction in Vancouver. It offers scenic views of the city and the mountains, as well as many outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Granville Island: This is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, artisanal food, and unique shopping experiences.
Capilano Suspension Bridge: This is a thrilling attraction that offers breathtaking views of the forest and the Capilano River. It is a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Can you suggest a day-by-day breakdown for a 5-day trip in Vancouver?

Day 1: Start your trip by exploring the city’s downtown area. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery, stroll through Robson Street, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Day 2: Spend the day at Stanley Park. Hike the trails, rent a bike, or have a picnic in the park.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Whistler, a popular ski resort located just a couple of hours away from Vancouver.
Day 4: Visit Granville Island and explore its many shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Day 5: Spend the day at Capilano Suspension Bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the forest and the river.

What are some must-visit places on Vancouver Island over a 5-day visit?

Tofino: This is a popular destination for surfers and nature lovers. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife.
Victoria: This is the capital city of British Columbia and is known for its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant culture.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: This is a stunning park that offers hiking trails, beaches, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

How can I experience Vancouver’s culture and history in 5 days?

Visit the Museum of Anthropology: This museum showcases the art and culture of the First Nations people of British Columbia.
Take a walking tour of Gastown: This historic neighborhood is known for its Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, and unique shops.
Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: This is a beautiful garden that showcases traditional Chinese architecture and landscaping.

What outdoor activities are recommended for a 5-day winter trip to Vancouver?

Skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts near Vancouver, such as Whistler or Cypress Mountain.
Ice skating at Robson Square: This is a popular spot for ice skating in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Snowshoeing or hiking at Mount Seymour: This is a beautiful mountain that offers many winter activities.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots to explore during a 5-day stay in Vancouver?

Yes. Here are some of them:

Lynn Canyon Park: This is a beautiful park that offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge.
Commercial Drive: This is a vibrant neighborhood that is known for its unique shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Nitobe Memorial Garden: This is a beautiful Japanese garden that offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

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5 days in Vancouver - Unmissable itinerary ideas for your holiday

Thinking of visiting Vancouver? You’re in good company. British Columbia’s famous coastal city is a popular place to visit - and with good reason. The city boasts mountains on one side and ocean on the other. It means that there are tons of activities to keep you entertained on a city break out of the ordinary.

We’ve put together a suggested itinerary for five days in Vancouver . It’s enough time to do the city justice or to combine a stay in Vancouver with a second destination like Whistler or Vancouver Island.

Read on to discover how you can make the most of Vancouver’s North Shore Mountains, Salish Sea, and of course, the plentiful shopping, dining and cultural activities in the city.

Planning to spend just a few days in Vancouver? Our handy destination guides might suit you:

48 hours in Vancouver

City, Sea & Mountains: 3 days in Vancouver

Day 1 – A leisurely day to get your bearings

Vancouver lookout – 1-2 hours.

A fantastic way to get your bearings in Vancouver is to head up the Vancouver Lookout observation tower. At 553 feet, you’ll enjoy 360° views of the city, ocean and mountains. It’s our favourite way to begin a holiday. You’ll get to see the city streets neatly laid out below you (thank you North American grid system) which is better than any map for figuring out what’s where. You’ll soon work out how to get down to the waterfront or see the direction of Stanley Park from your hotel.

Opening hours : 8.30am to 10.30pm in summer, 9am to 9pm in winter

Admission : $18.25 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, youths and children (under 5s go free)

Granville Market - 3-4 hours

After you’ve come back down from the dizzying heights of the Vancouver Lookout, head across town to the Granville Island Market . From the Lookout, you can stroll for half an hour all the way down Burrard Street to get an idea of the shops, restaurants and galleries in the heart of town. (If you’re still recovering from jet lag, hop on a bus instead). You’ll end up at the Aquatic Centre Ferry Dock, where you can enjoy the novelty of taking a colourful Aquabus Or False Creek Ferry to Granville Island.

The scenic Granville Island Market is the perfect place to potter about, looking at local crafts and food stalls and watching the buskers. Pick up lunch from one of the hundreds of delicious stalls at the market.

Opening hours : 9am to 7pm in summer, 10am to 6pm in winter

Admission : Free

Gastown for the evening – 3 hours

After you’ve stocked up at Granville Market, take a bus or a stroll back into town to explore Gastown . This historic area is full of bars and restaurants. Take a look at the iconic steam clock before enjoying an evening microbrew or cocktail in the sun and heading for dinner.

We recommend L’Abattoir for drinks and food – think excellent cocktails and fine dining with local seafood and beef.

Day 2 – Active adventures on the North Shore

Capilano suspension bridge park - 3 hours.

After a relaxed first day to get your bearings and adjust to local time, you’ll be raring for adventure on day two. We know that from downtown Vancouver, those North Shore mountains look good enough to reach out and touch, so you’ll be dying to visit them. Hop on the free shuttle bus from downtown for a quick and convenient ride to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park .

The park is nestled in the North Shore’s temperate rainforest, where you can see giant cedars and groves of hemlock. With your entry ticket, you’ll enjoy treetop boardwalks through the forest and cultural displays explaining the history of the Indigenous people in the area. You’ll also be able to walk across the park’s iconic suspension bridge, stretching across a canyon 70m above the rushing Capilano River.

Opening hours : 8am to 8pm summer, variable hours in winter

Admission : $46.95 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, youths and children (under 6s go free)

Grouse Mountain - 4 hours

From the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, it’s just a 15-minute bus ride to the Grouse Mountain Skyride. The gondola offers stunning views as it takes you up the mountain to the summit. We’d recommend having lunch here as there are some fantastic restaurants with views. Our favourite is Altitudes Bistro on the upper floor of the Peak Chalet.

After you’ve refuelled, spend the afternoon exploring the many hiking and biking trails on the mountain. You can even say hello to the resident rescue bears in the Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge .

Opening hours : 8.15am to 10pm daily

Admission : $56 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, youths, children and family tickets

Evening meal on Grouse Mountain or Coal Harbour – 2 hours

If you opted for lunch in the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, you could take advantage of the highly recommended Observatory restaurant on Grouse Mountain for an evening meal (open 5pm to 10pm). The Observatory offers fine dining with some of the most incredible views anywhere. It’s popular, so make sure you book in advance.

You could also check out the fantastic restaurants in Coal Harbour on your way back to your downtown hotel. This lively area is home to favourites like the Cactus Club Coal Harbour, Cardero’s, LIFT Bar Grill View and MIKU to name a few, all with great waterfront views and fantastic patios.

Day 3 – Nature and wildlife in the city

Cycle around stanley park – 1-2 hours.

No visit to Vancouver is complete without cycling the famous Stanley Park Seawall. The wall is 10km (6 miles) long and circles the entire park, which is a crown jewel of the city. The park is bigger than New York’s Central Park and is a haven for winding pathways, shady trees and sea views.

Spokes Bicycle Rentals offers bike hire just outside the park for as little as $8.57 for the first hour for an adult bike. We recommended hiring for a couple of hours and stopping off for a picnic lunch at one of the beaches in the park.

You can also join a guided bike tour with Cycle City Tours . They’ll take you to the best spots in the city with bike hire included.

Vancouver Whale watching tour – 3-5 hours

With its enviable perch on the Pacific Ocean, it makes sense to get out on the water during your visit to Vancouver. The city is blessed by being close to a resident orca whale population in the Juan de Fuca Strait. Humpbacks, minke whales and sealions also call the Salish Sea near Vancouver “home”.

Prince of Whales operates whale watching tours from Granville Island. It’s an incredibly convenient departure location. Plus, the expert guides will offer interesting talks about the local wildlife and give you the best chance of tracking and spotting whales.

Opening hours : April to November. Departs 8.30am and 2.30pm June – September, 12pm Spring and Autumn.

Admission : $170 for a half-day whale watching tour from Granville Island

Day 4 – Culture and relaxation

Vancouver art gallery – 2-3 hours.

Start your day on a cultural note with a visit to the acclaimed Vancouver Art Gallery . The gallery has a varied collection from modern art to indigenous art and Old Masters.

Opening hours : 10am – 5pm daily (late nights on Tuesdays and the first Friday of the month)

Admission : $24 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, youths and children (under 5s go free)

Swim in Kitsilano pool – 2 hours

When the day has warmed up, head over to cool Kistilano for some relaxation pool-side. ‘Kits’ is a trendy beach neighbourhood to the west of downtown. It is home to Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool . It’s a simply stunning setting to cool off in summer. Even if you don’t go for a swim, you can enjoy a stroll on the beach and relaxing in one of the neighbourhood cafes for lunch.

Opening hours : 7am – 8.30pm weekdays in summer. Shorter hours on weekends and other seasons.

Admission : $6.10 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, youths and children (under 4s go free)

Dr Sun Yat Sen Gardens – 1-2 hours

After you’ve enjoyed Kitsilano Beach, hop on the False Creek Ferry from the Vancouver Maritime Museum and get off at the Plaza of Nations Ferry Dock. From there, it’s just a short walk past the impressive BC Place Stadium to the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden .

Opening hours : 9.30am – 7pm in summer, shorter hours other seasons

Admission : $12 for adults with discounts for seniors, students and families

Dinner in Chinatown – 2 hours

After you’ve explored the Chinese Classical Gardens and mooched around the colourful shops of Chinatown, it’s time for dinner. Vancouver’s vibrant, historic Chinatown is one of the largest in the world and buzzes with authentic places to eat. You can find everything from buns to noodles here.

Bao Bei is a favourite restaurant for dumplings, great vegetarian options and local ingredients fused with authentic Chinese ingredients.

Day 5 – Shopping and sightseeing

Exploring west end – lunch and robson street – 3 hours.

Spend your last day exploring the city. Now’s the time to check out Robson Street for its incredible shopping, with everything from high-end designers to high-street fashion. Bordering Robson Street is the West End , which acts as a gateway to both Stanley Park and English Bay. Denman Street is a particular highlight for great value dining.

Vancouver aquarium - 2 hours

As you meander from the West End towards Stanley Park, make time to visit the Vancouver Aquarium in the heart of the park. This enormous aquarium is filled with stunning habitats for all kinds of incredible marine life. Learn about the animals that live in the Salish Sea off Vancouver as well as species from further afield.

Opening hours : 9.30am – 6pm daily

Admission : $38 for adults with discounts for seniors, students and children (under 3s go free)

Sunset and supper in English Bay - 2 hours

Stroll through Stanley Park to English Bay with its beautiful sandy beach. Spend the evening here, where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific and dine on delicious fresh seafood with a view of the ocean.

We recommend the Cactus Club English Bay or Hook Seabar for great views.

Ready to visit?

Take a look at our Vancouver holidays .

You could also consider adding a car hire in Vancouver to your holiday package.

Thumbnail Image Credit: Patrick Kuschfeld / Harbour Air Seaplanes

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Itineraries

5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: Unforgettable Trip Plan

If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver and want to make the most of your time, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive Vancouver Itinerary 5 Days that covers the best attractions, natural beauty, and culinary experiences the city has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to explore Vancouver in a new way, our Vancouver trip planner will help you create the best itinerary for Vancouver in 5 days.

You’ll discover iconic attractions in downtown Vancouver, visit vibrant neighborhoods like Granville Island and Gastown, venture to North Vancouver for breathtaking views, and even take a day trip to the mountain resort town of Whistler. Plus, we’ll provide recommendations for where to eat and stay, and how to navigate Vancouver’s transportation system. Are you ready to start planning an unforgettable trip? Let’s get started!

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Vancouver

Make the most out of your Vancouver trip by starting your itinerary in the bustling downtown area. This neighborhood is home to many top attractions and landmarks, making it the perfect introduction to the city.

Stanley Park

One of the most famous and beloved parks in all of Canada , Stanley Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and travelers alike. With over 400 hectares of natural beauty and attractions, visitors can spend hours exploring the various trails, beaches, and gardens within the park. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a stroll along the Seawall, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning waterfront views.

Canada Place

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Canada Place is a multipurpose building that serves as a convention center, hotel, and cruise ship terminal. The unique architecture and design of the structure make it a standout landmark in the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building or enjoy the stunning waterfront views from the outdoor promenade.

Vancouver Art Gallery

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must-do on day one of your Vancouver itinerary. This museum features a world-renowned collection of contemporary and historical art, including works by Canadian and international artists. Be sure to check out the gallery’s special exhibitions, which showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and movements.

Where to Eat:

Vancouver is known for its vibrant food scene, and downtown is no exception. Visit Miku Restaurant for inventive Japanese cuisine, Medina Cafe for globally inspired breakfast dishes, or Gotham Steakhouse & Bar for a classic steakhouse experience.

Day 2: Discovering Granville Island and Gastown

On day two of your Vancouver itinerary, explore two iconic neighborhoods of the city – Granville Island and Gastown. Start your day with a visit to Granville Island’s famous public market, a foodie’s heaven. Sample the freshest local seafood, artisan cheese, and delicious baked goods. While you’re here, don’t miss out on the street performers and artists who call Granville Island their home.

Afterward, head over to Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest district. Admire the beautiful Victorian architecture and snap photos of the famous steam clock that marks the hour with its whistles. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with trendy shops and art galleries, and take in the unique atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.

Granville Island Public Market vs. Gastown

Whether you spend your time on Granville Island or Gastown, you’ll be treated to a unique experience that celebrates Vancouver’s heritage and contemporary culture.

Day 3: Venture to North Vancouver

On day three of your Vancouver sightseeing itinerary , head to North Vancouver via the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. This area is home to some of the most must-see places in Vancouver , including the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Grouse Mountain, and Lynn Canyon Park.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Grouse Mountain

Lynn Canyon Park

With these amazing destinations, day three of your Vancouver itinerary is sure to be unforgettable.

Day 4: Enjoy Vancouver’s Natural Beauty

Day four of your Vancouver itinerary is all about immersing yourself in the city’s stunning natural landscapes.

Start your day with a visit to English Bay Beach, one of the city’s most popular beach destinations. Take a dip in the ocean, build sandcastles with your family, or simply lounge on the sand and soak up the sun.

Next on the agenda is a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium, situated within the lush greenery of Stanley Park. Get up close and personal with various marine animals, including dolphins, sea otters, and even penguins.

Finally, take a leisurely stroll along the Seawall, a picturesque waterfront path that spans over 28 kilometers in length. Admire the stunning ocean views, watch boats sail by, and bask in the tranquility of nature.

Day 5: Excursion to Whistler

On the final day of your Vancouver itinerary, take a day trip to the sought-after mountain resort town of Whistler, known for its natural beauty and exhilarating outdoor activities.

Start your day early and enjoy the scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway while taking in the picturesque views of the coastline and mountains. Upon arrival in Whistler, immerse yourself in the town’s charming atmosphere and explore the local shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Outdoor Activities in Whistler

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you’ll have a blast in Whistler. The town offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and white-water rafting. Notably, during winter , skiing and snowboarding are the top attractions of the area.

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is a must-see attraction in Whistler, offering breathtaking views of the area. It’s an excellent way to experience Whistler’s natural beauty and witness the stunning panoramas of the surrounding peaks.

In summary, Whistler is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore its stunning scenery and take part in a variety of exhilarating activities.

Where to Eat in Vancouver

Exploring Vancouver through your taste buds is a must-do on your 5-day Vancouver itinerary . The city boasts a diverse culinary scene, from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Here are some of our top picks for must-try restaurants:

For fresh seafood, head to Granville Island and visit the famous Public Market. Offering everything from fish and chips to sushi, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Downtown Vancouver has a variety of international cuisine options, including authentic Chinese food in Chinatown and Korean BBQ in Robson Street.

Make sure to save room for dessert! Try the delicious treats at Thierry Chocolaterie Patisserie Cafe in downtown Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Vancouver

When planning your Vancouver itinerary, finding the right accommodations is crucial to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel in downtown Vancouver or a cozy bed and breakfast in a charming neighborhood, there are plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget.

For those who want to be in the heart of the action, there are numerous high-end hotels located in the bustling downtown area. Some of the best options include the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia , and the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver.

If you prefer a quieter and more residential setting, consider staying in one of Vancouver’s charming neighborhoods such as Kitsilano or Yaletown. Here, you’ll find plenty of bed and breakfasts and Airbnb rentals that offer a more local experience.

No matter where you choose to stay in Vancouver, be sure to book in advance as accommodations can fill up quickly during peak travel times.

“Vancouver is a unique destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and friendly people. No matter where you decide to stay, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to this amazing city.”

Transportation in Vancouver

Getting around Vancouver is a breeze with a variety of transportation options to choose from.

Public Transportation

Vancouver has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. The SkyTrain is a popular and efficient way to travel around the city, with three lines that cover many top attractions and neighborhoods. Bus routes also provide comprehensive coverage and can give you access to areas not serviced by the SkyTrain. You can purchase tickets at station kiosks, or use your credit card at a vending machine.

Renting a Car

If you prefer to have more control over your travels or plan on exploring outside of the city, renting a car is a great option. Many rental car companies are available at the airport or throughout the city. However, keep in mind that Vancouver’s narrow streets and heavy traffic during peak hours can make for challenging driving conditions.

Vancouver is a bike-friendly city, with many bike rental stations located throughout the city. A popular way to experience the city is by cycling the Seawall, a scenic path that wraps around Stanley Park and English Bay.

Other Modes of Transportation

If you’re looking for something unique, consider taking a water taxi or renting a scooter. Water taxis are a fun way to explore the city’s many waterways, while scooters are an exciting way to experience the city’s neighborhoods.

Congratulations on completing your 5-day Vancouver itinerary ! We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your unforgettable trip to Vancouver, filled with top attractions, unique experiences, and delicious food. By following this itinerary, you have experienced a perfect balance of city life and natural beauty that Vancouver has to offer. We recommend keeping this itinerary as a reference for future trips and sharing it with other travel enthusiasts. Vancouver is the perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. Don’t forget to hashtag your Vancouver journey on social media with #VancouverItinerary5Days or #5DayVancouverItinerary to share your experiences with the world!

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5-Day Montego Bay Itinerary: Unwind in Paradise

Flagstaff itinerary 5 days: explore & discover, missouri itinerary 10 days: ultimate travel guide.

Vancouver, BC, Canada The perfect 5 days itinerary

Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia, is among Canada’s densest, most ethnically diverse cities. It's surrounded by mountains and invites outdoor pursuits of all kinds, but also has thriving art, theatre and music scenes. Vancouver Art Gallery is known for its works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology houses preeminent First Nations collections. The city's numerous parks and gardens make it a great destination for nature lovers.

What to do in Vancouver?

This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Vancouver. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Vancouver

Start your day with a visit to Stanley Park , Vancouver's largest urban park. Enjoy a bike ride around the seawall or visit the Vancouver Aquarium located within the park.

Head to the Vancouver Art Gallery , known for its works by regional artists. Later, explore Robson Street , the city's premier shopping destination.

Visit Canada Place , an iconic landmark that hosts a variety of events. Enjoy the stunning views of the harbor and the North Shore Mountains.

Day 2: Discover the Cultural Side of Vancouver

Visit the Museum of Anthropology , which houses preeminent First Nations collections. Then, explore the University of British Columbia campus, which is home to several other museums and gardens.

Head to Granville Island and explore the bustling public market. Enjoy a variety of local food and shop for unique crafts and souvenirs.

Visit the Kitsilano Beach , one of Vancouver's most popular beaches. Enjoy the sunset and have a relaxing evening.

Day 3: Experience Vancouver's Natural Beauty

Take a day trip to Grouse Mountain . Enjoy the scenic gondola ride to the top and take in the stunning views of the city, sea, and mountains.

Explore the mountain's hiking trails or visit the wildlife refuge. In winter, you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding.

Dine at the mountain's restaurant and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Day 4: Explore Vancouver's Historic Side

Visit Gastown , Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. Explore its historic buildings, unique shops, and trendy restaurants.

Head to Chinatown , one of the largest in North America. Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and explore the vibrant shops and restaurants.

Visit the Vancouver Lookout and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city.

Day 5: A Day of Leisure and Shopping

Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and experience the thrill of walking on a suspension bridge over a lush forest.

Head to Metropolis at Metrotown , the largest shopping mall in British Columbia. Shop for international brands and enjoy a variety of dining options.

End your trip with a visit to English Bay , a beautiful beach area. Enjoy the sunset and reflect on your amazing trip to Vancouver.

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Vancouver Itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 Days

Not long time ago, I had an entire week of vacation to burn. I wanted to go somewhere, preferably another country, cheap and nearby. Guess what? At that point, I have never been to Canada. Incredible but true. So, my husband and I decided to pay a visit to our northern neighbor.

The Vancouver decision was a no brainer. It is a relatively short plane ride from Los Angeles (about three hours). Plus, everybody seems to be awestruck with the beauty of Vancouver. I wanted to find out if the “rumors” are true.

Our little adventure paid off. We had a phenomenal week in Vancouver. I don’t know what they feed us in there, or what. We returned in love with the place. My husband says it tops the list of places he would like to live.

The city seems to have all. Friendly people, astonishing nature, a wide variety of attractions, nice weather and good food (or should I say good sushi). I am not kidding. This is a great place to visit.

That is why I am so excited to present you this detailed Vancouver itinerary that can be used for a 3, 4 or 5-day trip.

Table of Contents

About Vancouver

The city of Vancouver is located on the Burrard Peninsula. Then, Downtown and other neighborhoods of touristic interest are located on another peninsula that extends like a finger from the Burrard Peninsula.

My itinerary concentrates on the attractions within the Downtown Peninsula. I will cover some attraction in other parts of the city and North Vancouver (which is another city).

This is not meant to be a strict itinerary to follow. Use it as an array of ideas to put together a trip you will enjoy to the max!

Vancouver Itinerary – Day 1

To start the day, you can head to places such as Breka Bakery & Cafe , Twisted Fork Bistro or Medina . On those places, you can find hot plates, sandwiches, pastries, bread, and coffee.

Or, visit Tim Horton’s and discover why Canadians seem to love this place. They specialize in coffee and donuts.

With a full belly (hope you can properly move), it is time to check Granville Street , the main drag in Downtown Vancouver. Pay attention to stores, theaters, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

On the northern end of Granville Street, you are going to find Canada Place . This Place has become an icon because of its wonderful white sails and the many hats it juggles. It houses Vancouver’s Convention Center, World Trade Center, and a hotel. It is also the main cruise ship terminal in the area (a lot of people board here their cruises to Alaska).

The Waterfront Station , a major transportation hub, is located next to the building. You can continue walking around since there are green areas, short trails, statues and views of the Vancouver Harbor.

The Vancouver Lookout , an observation deck more than 550 feet above the ground, is located practically across the street. From the top, you will have 360-degree views of the city. Keep in mind a ticket costs $15-$20. The Lookout can be visited during the day or at night.

The Vancouver Lookout, an observation deck, Canada

A short walk away, you will find Gastown , the area where Vancouver was founded in 1867. The original name of this area was Gassy’s, in honor of saloon proprietor Gassy Jack Deighton. The guy was famous for offering locals all the whiskey they could drink in return of helping him to build the saloon. A village started to grow around Gassy’s tavern. Today, the buildings in the area date from 1886 (rebuilt after a fire).

Gastown is a small neighborhood but it has been gaining notoriety lately. There are cobblestone streets, gas lamps, Victorian facades, and big trees. Most people come to the area to take a look of the Steam Clock , one of only two in the world.

Built by a local clockmaker, it’s powered by a steam system originally put in place to heat buildings through an underground pipeline that snakes through Downtown. Watch for the burst of steam every 15 minutes, which sets off steam whistles to the tune of Westminster chimes.

Steam Clock at Gastwon, Vancouver's oldest part, Canada

You can take cool pictures of the clock with the Vancouver Lookout on the background. Try to find the right angle a bit away from the clock. You can also take a look at a statue of “Gassy Jack” (at the junction of Water and Alexander Streets).

After spending some time around those two sights, it is time to shop, stroll or dine. Hunger may have started to make an appearance. The good news is that you have plenty of restaurants to choose from. Just to give you an idea, you can eat at places like Nuba (Lebanese), The Flying Pig (Canadian), Tacofino (Mexican) and Rodney’s Oyster House (my husband’s favorite).

For scrumptious pastries, head to Cadeux Bakery . Salt offers wine tasting and Black Frog Eatery has craft beer.

End the day by strolling Robson Street . Some rank the scene on this street as the best in Vancouver. I just can say that everything in there was really interesting. The stores were full of fascinating things and street performers were all around even though we were there on a Monday night.

Shop display in Robson Street, Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver Itinerary – Day 2

This morning head to the Granville Island Public Market . All Vancouver experts seem to rank the place as a ‘not to miss attraction” in the city. So, make sure to pay a visit (or two or three visits).

Granville Island is not really an island but a peninsula. It is located in False Creek across Downtown Vancouver (which, as mentioned, is located in a peninsula). The “island” used to be an industrial area. During the ’70s, the place was redeveloped and today it provides amenities like the public market, marinas, hotels, theaters, galleries and shopping areas.

Additionally, it houses a large art scene. There are glassblowing, printing, jewelry, art and wood studios. Famous organizations have named the island “One of the World’s Great Places”.

Colorful peppers at the Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver, Canada

You can take a ride to the island or use the ferry that crosses False Creek. The 2-minute ride is a fun way to get great views of the city.

If you are feeling the hunger, make the food court your first stop. An early visit will allow you to have the place to yourself. As the day progresses, the crows start to clog the halls.

The food selection is vast. Get prepared for sandwiches in artisanal bread, freshly baked pastries, cookies with big chocolate chunks, hot coffee and steaming chocolate. Plus, there are all types of “international” cuisine. Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Sushi, Pierogies, Gelato. I felt like I was taken to paradise. The only problem is deciding what to eat. Huff!

After a satisfying meal, it is time to walk around the produce section. The selection of fruit and vegetables is enormous. It is like watching an overdose of color on a surrealist painting.

Your mouth may start to salivate (even though you ate a few minutes ago) when encountering the hams, sausages, and cheeses. I am a 100% ham lover.

I was a little surprised to find bagged soups. I have seen bagged sauces but never soups. This is part of the beauty of going to a place like this. People get so creative with all aspect of food.

Bagged soups at the Granville Public Market in Vancouver, Vancouver Itinerary

After that, I saw some shops selling goods worth of being displayed at a museum. They were so pretty that you didn’t feel like eating them but you can stare at them forever discovering new colors and shapes. For example, look at the pasta below.

Colorful pasta at the Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver

What about these cheese cups with a surprise at the bottom?

Goat Cheese with flowers, herbs and seeds at the bottom, Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver

And, let me tell you, a market is not a market if there are no bakeries offering incredibly appetizing pastries (or appetizing chocolate, candies, toffee, cookies). These were definitely some edible pieces of art.

After tasting delicious dishes at Granville Island, it is time for a walk. Hey, you need to burn some calories!

Exit the island neighborhood (remember that is really a peninsula) and walk towards Kitsilano . There is a shore walkway connecting the neighborhoods. The objective is to make it to Vanier Park in order to enjoy amazing views of Downtown and the North Vancouver Mountains.

Vancouver Skyline seen from path, Vancouver, Canada

If we can arrange a contest to find the most walkable city in the world, Vancouver would be a top contender for the first prize. Strolling gently through the city many areas is a pleasure. The shore walk filled my eyes with beauty. There were mountains, flowers, and bodies of water everywhere. The manmade structures added to the almost perfect picture. The houses, bridges, and boats were full of charm.

Houses, trees and reflection, Vancouver, Canada

Then, there are things that are unique to Vancouver like totem poles.

Totem pole near Vanier Park, Vancouver, Canada

Or, particular sculptures with names like Freezing Water or Gate to the Northwest Passage .

With so much to see, you will arrive at Vanier Park sooner than later. More remarkable views will appear.

Vanier Park , located in the Kitsilano area, offers lots of attractions. The park itself is an ideal place to fly a kite or to attend outdoor events. Beach lovers should hit Kits Beach. Dog Beach has space for pup owners.

The park is also the home of three major museums:

Vancouver Maritime Museum
H.R MacMillian Space Centre
The Vancouver Museum

Crab statue in front of Museum of Vancouver (Vanier Park), Canada

For lunch, you can choose restaurants like Octopus’s Garden , Cacao, AnnaLena or Mak N Min . They are located close to the park and beach.

Hitting 4 th Street restaurants and funky shops is an option too. They have places like Maenam , Fable Kitchen and Nelly’s Grill .

For the afternoon, I recommend taking the bus or a ride to the University of British Columbia . The campus of this educational institution houses the Museum of Anthropology . This is a world class museum famous for its architecture, exhibitions, research, teaching, natural setting, and community work.

The museum is a bit away from Downtown Vancouver. Plan to spend at least half a day to make the most out of your visit. The bus or ride will leave you at the entrance of the university campus. You will have to walk to the museum. This fact provides a great opportunity to get a taste of college life in Vancouver.

The first thing to notice, once at the museum, is the spectacular beauty of the building. The structure was designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, who based his award-winning design on traditional Northwest Coast post and beam structures. Go to the outdoor exhibition area to take a good look at the building.

Museum of Anthropology (University of British Columbia), Vancouver, Canada

The museum is located at the cliffs of Point Grey . From there, you can get lost in glorious views of the North Vancouver Mountains and the sea.

The outdoors exhibition area contains two Haida Houses, several totem poles and a reflecting pool.

Most visitors come attracted for only one thing: one of the best collections of totem poles and Northwest Coast nation’s arts in the entire world. The impressive collection of artifacts is mostly housed in the museum’s Great Hall. This space contains 15 meter high walls and is illuminated with natural light.

Museum of Anthropology Main Hall, Vancouver Itinerary

Now, let me say something about totem poles. A lot of people visualize them as objects of worship. This is not the real purpose of these long and lean structures. These poles have multiple interesting purposes. For example,

Recount family stories and lineage
Celebrate cultural beliefs
Part of mortuary structures
Provide stories that commemorate public persons
Represent some type of power
Show the success of families
Shame individuals or groups

The thing I loved about totem poles is that they are not erected without celebration. Even modern poles are erected in the traditional way (several men pulling until the pole is upright). A party of song and dance follows the moment.

The museum presents more than totem poles. It showcases a great number of paintings and sculptures. It also shows other objects like gates and canoes.

It is interesting to notice that modern or contemporary Northwestern Coast nation’s art is given an important place in this museum. There were several lovely pieces carved or painted in the last couple of years. They also promote collaborations with international artists. They even have a totem pole done by an African artist. The interesting thing is that it was erected in the traditional way.

There are also galleries showcasing works of art by other cultures. The proper name of these spaces is Multiversity Galleries or Ways of Knowing (which I think is a totally cool name). These contain more than 10,000 objects from around the world.

Masks at the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver, Canada

Well, I cannot forget to mention my hands down favorite work of art at the museum. It is so special that it is located in its own rotunda. I am talking about Bill’s Reid most well-known sculpture: “The Raven and the First Men.

This sculpture in yellow cedar represents the Haida legend of the raven discovering the men in a clamshell, on a beach of Rose Spit, Queen Charlotte Islands, British Columbia. It was donated to the people of Canada by the Koerner family. The Haida celebrated the unveiling of the sculpture.

The Raven and the First Men at the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver, Canada,

If you still have energy, check the night scene at Gastown, Kitsilano or Yaletown.

Vancouver Itinerary – Day 3

On your third day in Vancouver, venture on a short excursion outside the city!

Now, there are many options but I will be focusing on Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge since those are the places I visited.

Grouse Mountain is located in the North Shore Mountains (north of Vancouver). The mountain top is accessed by an aerial tram (or a grueling hiking trail). The top is full of interesting amenities. In winter, you can ski to your heart’s content. Summer brings the famous lumberjack shows and the opportunity to enjoy the numerous hiking trails.

Additionally, there are wildlife refuges where you can observe bears and wolves. And, did I mention the views? The views of Vancouver (and even Washington State) are magnificent.

Tram taking visitors to the top of Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, Canada

Local companies organize guided tours to this and other locations. If you want to save some money (tours are not necessarily affordable), visiting by public transportation is doable. This is the option we used.

Getting to the mountain is part of the experience. We took the ferry connecting Downtown and North Vancouver. Then, a bus crisscrossing winding roads took us to the entrance of the recreational area.

We took the aerial tram to the top and were faced with glorious views. To one side, we had Downtown Vancouver.

On another side, we had a view of the North Shore Mountains. There are two peaks known as The Lions. Even Mount Baker, in Washington state, lured in the distance.

Grouse Mountain is an all-day affair. To be honest, I would make the most of the money paid by staying there as long as possible.

Bear at Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, Canada

However, if you are interested in packing one more sight into the day, head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge . The same bus that takes you to Grouse Mountain stops in front of this attraction.

You have probably seen pictures of Capilano. This cool, long bridge hangs over a canyon. On-site, you can enjoy walking trails and adventure courses among trees.

Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver, Canada

Note: If you are visiting Grouse Mountain and Capilano, leave Grouse Mountain between 1:00 or 2:00 p.m. to have time to visit Capilano. Some offerings at Grouse Mountain are seasonal. Check what is available, on their website, before heading there.

Before crossing back to Vancouver, grab a bite at the Lonsdale Quay Market. This place is officially located in the city of North Vancouver and provides strategic services to the big number of people who commute daily between North and Downtown Vancouver.

It originated as a carnival style marketplace which opened for Expo ’86 Vancouver. With time, it has evolved into a space offering fresh foods, unique retailing, restaurants, and a hotel.

Cookies at Lonsdale Quay Market, North Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver Itinerary – Day 4

You will need tons of energy today. I suggest having a decadent breakfast at places such as Nero Belgian Waffle Bar , Joe’s Grill or Peaked Pies (Australian pies, yay!)

New York has Central Park and Vancouver has Stanley Park . Central Park is famous for being an oasis in the middle of a sea of skyscrapers. I am not here to deny the charms of NYC’s best outdoor attraction. But sorry New York, I have to say that Stanley Park is totally different. Way, way different.

This park, located at the west end of the city’s Downtown peninsula, offers amazing views of the city, the sea, and the North Shore Mountains. Some days you are able to see the peaks of Vancouver Island. Plus, the park has numerous attractions and point of interests. What else can you ask for? This is the closest paradise gets to suburbia.

The park is huge (404 hectares or 1000 acres). But, don’t worry my friend. It is easy to wander around. Why? Because the entire park is surrounded by a 6.5 mile (10.5 km) Seawall . This is basically a lane separated for walkers (or runners) and bikers. From the Seawall, it is easy to access lanes that take you to the attractions inside the park. In other words, there is a very good network of paths (with very good signaling and information).

The easiest way to explore the Seawall and the park is by bike. If you don’t have your own bike, you can always rent one around Coal Harbour (Georgia Street at Denman). If you want to spend more time exploring the park, there is public transportation that can take you to the entrance and there is a trolley looping thru the park attractions. And of course, for those athletic type, walking and running is an option.

Seaplanes at Coal Harbor, Vancouver, Canada

It doesn’t matter what transportation mode you choose. The important thing is to experience Staley Park in some way. DON’T MISS IT!!! This is one of the greatest outdoor attractions in the city. The views alone are worth the effort.

I biked the entire Seawall (and more). We admired the beauty that makes this part of the world famous in 2-3 hours. I highly recommend this to anybody visiting.

We started taking a look at the tall buildings, sculptures, marinas and even seaplanes around Coal Harbour. Once we got closer to the park, we had fantastic views of the city’s skyline.

We took a little detour to take a look at the totem poles of Brockton Point.

Totem pole at Stanley Park, Vancouver Itinerary, Canada

As we continued our ride, we arrived to probably the most dramatic point of our ride. We ended up taking a good look at the Lions Gate Bridge, the North Shore Mountains, and the sea. All this was framed by spectacular fall foliage.

Lion's Gate Bridge seen from Stanley Park, Vancouver, Canada

Well, once we rode under Lions Gate Bridge, we started to approach a peculiar rock formation. It is called Siwash Rock and is made out of basalt (molten magma pushed to the surface during volcanic activity times). While I was approaching the uncommon formation, the sun rays began to illuminate the road in a magical way. I felt like the rays were being refracted by the surrounding foliage. It looked like a scene tweaked with a special filter.

Siwash Rock at Stanley Park Seawall, Vancouver, Canada

As we continued, we hit Third Beach and English Bay. At that moment, we cut thru the inside of the park in order to return to Coal Harbor (or return our bikes, sniff, sniff).

We were able to admire the Jubilee Fountain at the Lost Lagoon. The fountain was built to commemorate Vancouver’s Golden Jubilee (in 1936). This makes the fountain a really old girl. I guess it can still be called a girl because it is one of those things that do not age with time.

I am sure we were not able to enjoy all that Stanley Park has to offer (lucky you, residents) but we absolutely loved what we saw.

Without a doubt, I understand why Vancouver is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

View from Stanley Park, Vancouver Itinerary, Canada

To recover from walking and biking, eat at one of the sushi joints located in the city. There seems to be one at every corner. The best thing is that they are affordable. You can eat sushi morning and night without breaking the bank.

We ate sushi so many times that I cannot remember all the names of the places we visited. However, here are some great options close to Coal Harbor: Momo Sushi, Domo Sushi, Miko Sushi, Kamei Royale, Sushiholic and Tetsu Sushi .

If you want to keep exploring Vancouver’s neighborhoods, do not forget about Chinatown .

Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the largest in North America, even though a lot of the Asian population in the city lives in different areas nowadays. However, the place continues to be vital and lively thanks to the many that come to shop, eat and stroll.

The Millennium Gate is the official entrance to Chinatown. It was built in 2002 to represent both the past and the future. It contains Western and Eastern symbols to celebrate the multiculturalism in the area.

Shanghai and Canton Alleys are probably the oldest streets in the neighborhood. In here, the first Asian immigrants to the region settled their houses and shops. At one point 1,000 residents called this area home. A famous theatre was built to keep the traditions alive and cultural and political events took place very often.

At Shanghai Alley, you can find a replica of the West Han Dynasty Bell (a gift from sister city Guangzhou or Canton). If you are interested in learning more about influential Chinese-Canadians who settle in the area, the alley has been revitalized with signs highlighting the lives of these men.

Sun Yat-Sen is considered the father of the Chinese Republic. A garden locates in Chinatown was named in his honor. He stayed in Vancouver on three different occasions while traveling the world exposing his nationalistic ideas (or trying to get funds for his nationalistic movements).

The garden is the first full-size garden built outside China (masters from the country came to build the garden). There is a fee to enter the garden. On the other hand, there is the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park which is free. However, it was built in Chinese style with North American materials (the garden materials came from China).

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden in Vancouver's Chinatown, Canada

As always, it is cool to walk around and take a look at what is sold on the streets. There was a vast variety of fruits, vegetables, fish, dried seafood, herbs, and tea. I even saw the weirdest type of mushroom I have seen in my life. Plus, I saw a guy who was preparing (or filleting) lobsters. I am sure his mastership rivals any chef working in a big city restaurant.

I just loved the stores and shops in the area. You can be hours and hours trying to figure out what is inside all those jars.

You can make your visit to the neighborhood as short or long as desired. Here are other attractions in the area.

Sam Kee Building
Chinese Zodiac Mosaic
Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, Archives and Military Museum
Canadian Chinese Monument
The Andy Livingstone Park limits the neighborhood
Narrowest commercial building in the world is in the area.

If you are in Vancouver during the weekend, you may want to head to Chinatown in the morning to enjoy dim sum. Bao Bei and Kam Wai are good options.

Vancouver Itinerary – Day 5

You can use your fifth day in Vancouver for a day trip. Below you will find the most highly rated options.

Bowen Island
Sunshine Coast
Fraser Canyon
Lynn Canyon

This page provides details on 25 possible day trips.

Or, you can book a half or full day tours.

Whale Watching
Seaplane Ride
Free Walking Tour

Kayaking and Boating in Vancouver, Canada

If you are not interested in leaving the city, here are my ideas for the day.

The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a public garden located in the Shaughnessy neighborhood. It is managed by the Vancouver Park Board and volunteers. It is a fairly large garden (55 acres) which provides many special attractions (other than a huge collection of botanicals).

In there you can admire totem poles, a Korean Pavilion, and statues that add to the serene atmosphere. Additionally, the garden offers guided tours, lectures and workshop. Therefore, visit the official website if you want to participate in any of these offerings.

VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, Canada

The Vancouver Aquarium turned out to be a great experience. It is actually the largest aquarium in Canada. This is not a place to only see fish. There are amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. The exhibitions are phenomenal. You can explore the Amazon, the Arctic, the tropics, etc. It is a real learning experience. I found it really fun. This is an ideal attraction for families or for rainy days (that is why we went).

Richmond Night Market

If you are visiting Vancouver mid-May to mid-October, leave time on your itinerary to visit Richmond, a city located about 8 miles away.

Richmond hosts the largest night market in North America. Organizers promise that attendees are able to “taste the world.” In addition, the market offers games, raffles and live music. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this.

How to Get to Vancouver

The Vancouver International Airport is located about 6 miles from Downtown. There is a train connecting the airport to Downtown. The ride takes 30 minutes.

Some people arrive in Vancouver by cruise. Ships dock around Canada Place. Therefore, passengers are within close proximity of Gastown, Chinatown and Granville Street.

Main trail lines will leave people at the Waterfront Station . Once again, this is close to Canada Place and other attractions.

Vancouver counts with an excellent public transportation system (land and sea). A car is not needed to explore the city.

Visitor’s centers and hotel desks can help you to figure out how to get from one point to another. Vancouver does NOT have Uber or Lyft.

I hope you have enjoyed my Vancouver itinerary! I cannot stop professing my love for the city. So, if you have not visited, what are you waiting for?

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What would you include on your Vancouver itinerary?

Pin “Vancouver Itinerary – 3, 4 o 5 Days” for later!

Things to do in #Vancouver, #Canada – Travel tips and vacation ideas – Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! My itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days will take you to the best spots in the city. Get ready to visit Canada Place, Gastown, Stanley Park, Chinatown, Granville Island, Yaletown, Grouse Mountain the Museum of Anthopology, the VanDusen Garden and more! In additions, I have recommendation on day trips and restaurants (tons of sushi places). #BritishColumbia

May 10, 2019 at 10:48 pm

Wow! I’ve never really wanted to go to Vancouver, but this article changes my mind! This is an awesome guide and your pictures are beautiful.

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May 4, 2020 at 5:03 am

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5-day Itinerary to Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia

Katie Anderson

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/8MXBHA/5-day-itinerary-to-vancouver-and-victoria-british-columbia-katie-anderson

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Beautiful coastline views, delicious food and gorgeous scenery, British Columbia is a wonderful getaway. With peaceful nature escapes, laid-back coastal vibes and the hustle and bustle of city life, it's like the perfect combination! This itinerary is a combination of Vancouver and Victoria, BC highlights in just five days. I traveled to Vancouver and Victoria in August and loved it, but this itinerary could be implemented from March to November.

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Fairmont waterfront.

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Day 1: Stanley Park adventure

Take a morning flight from your home airport to Vancouver, BC and check in for a 2-night stay at one of the above recommended accommodations. After checking in, head to Stanley Park and explore the gorgeous shoreline views. Make sure to check out the Totem Poles (a collection of nine totem poles) and the Stanley Park Rose Garden. You could easily spend a whole day here. If you are traveling with children, I would highly recommend the Vancouver Aquarium, Canada's largest aquarium. This is great for all ages! For dinner, head to Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House for your fresh seafood fix. Head up to the roof-top patio and make sure to try a few of the fresh oysters.

Day 2: Nature & dining

Grab a delicious breakfast at The Botanist . I recommend the crab and avocado benedict. After breakfast, head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. I can arrange tickets in advance for your desired entry time. It's a unique suspension bridge amid a rain forest with stunning views of the Capilano River. This is a great activity for all ages, and as someone who is terrified of heights, this really didn't bother me at all. It was a highlight and an absolute must-do when in Vancouver. After a fun morning exploring the park, drive the Sea to Sky Highway up to Squamish, BC.

Grab lunch at Howe Sound Inn & Brewing or Taka Ramen and Sushi for your sushi fix. After lunch, drive yourself to the Sea to Sky Gondola where you will ride the Gondola up over Howe Sound for some fantastic views and stunning photos. Finally, make your way back to Vancouver and head to the Chambar Restaurant for a delicious dinner of Belgian cuisine.

Day 3: Ferry to Victoria

Take a morning car ferry (I recommend the 9:00 ferry option and can arrange this for you) from Vancouver over to Victoria, BC. This is a 90-minute ferry ride and it is advised that you arrive 60 minutes before your ferry departure. Once in Victoria, grab a quick fish and chips lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish and make your way to your second accommodation for a 2-night stay. I absolutely loved my stay in Victoria. It's a really beautiful island! For an afternoon activity, I would recommend your choice of the following: a Victoria Guided Food and History Tour, a Whale-Watching cruise with Expert Naturalists, or a Victoria Small-Group Bike Tour (approximately two hours) visiting a variety of Victoria landmarks. For dinner, try 10 Acres Bistro, a romantic restaurant with farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 4: Butchart Gardens delight

Grab a coffee or a pastry at Crust Bakery . Make your way to the Butchart Gardens. The gardens are truly breathtaking and another absolute must-do! It's just an incredibly beautiful, peaceful place that really makes you appreciate life. Full-of-color, pictures really don't do justice to how special this place is. I loved everything about it! Spend the rest of the day exploring Victoria at your own pace and head to dinner at Il Covo Trattoria for some rustic Italian dishes on the garden patio.

Day 5: Return home

Take a morning car ferry back to Vancouver and head to the airport for your afternoon or evening flight home.

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Katherine Hurley's guide, Quebec City For Families .

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Vancouver with Kids 5-Day Travel Itinerary

With so many outdoor attractions, cool ways to get around the city, and kid-friendly restaurants, Vancouver is a fantastic destination for families. Whether you’re exploring a rainforest park, riding a ferry, or following the Dumpling Trail, this 5-day itinerary for visiting Vancouver with kids serves up plenty of family-focused fun. Tip: Always ask about special family rates or discounts when you’re buying tickets to any sights or attractions.

man running in Vancouver's Stanley Park in autumn

Day 1: Stanley Park

Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day in Stanley Park , Vancouver’s rainforest green space at the end of the downtown peninsula. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre first (it’s less crowded in the mornings), then enjoy your picnic near Lost Lagoon.

After lunch, rent bikes to explore more of the park; there are several rental shops just outside the park’s West Georgia Street entrance. Follow the Seawall to see the majestic totem poles at Brockton Point , stop to cool off in the splash park near Lumberman’s Arch, and let the kids play in the sand or go for a swim at Second Beach , where there’s a large pool, restrooms, and snack bar.

For dinner, try one of the Asian restaurants downtown. Most kids enjoy watching the dumpling makers at work at Dinesty Dumpling House , or you can dig into Japanese-style hot dogs at Japadog .

Day 2: Granville Island and False Creek

Buy a day pass for the Aquabus ferry, so you can hop on and off these cute little boats as you travel around Granville Island and False Creek. Take the Aquabus to Science World and spend the morning exploring the hands-on exhibits. When it’s time for lunch, cruise over to Granville Island , where there are plenty of family-friendly food options in the Granville Island Public Market .

Don’t miss the Kids Market , with its kid-approved shops and indoor playground. Check out Sea Village , too, to let the kids imagine what it would be like to live on a houseboat. When you’re done exploring the island, rent kayaks for an excursion along False Creek.

Have an early dinner at Go Fish (it’s a short stroll along the waterfront from Granville Island), then catch the Aquabus to Yaletown for dessert at Bella Gelateria Yaletown .

a ferry boat in false creek with Science World in the background, Vancouver

Day 3: Canada Place and the North Shore

Start your day at Canada Place with a virtual flight across the country at FlyOver Canada . You even feel the spray as you soar (virtually) over Niagara Falls.

In front of Canada Place, catch the free shuttle to Grouse Mountain . Ride the Skyride tram to the top, where you can visit the grizzly bears at the Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife , watch the falcons soar at the Birds in Motion demonstration, and get some chuckles at the Lumberjack Show . Go for a hike, and have lunch overlooking the city and water below.

Your next stop is the Capilano Suspension Bridge (from the Grouse Mountain entrance, take bus 236 down Capilano Road). Give the kids a thrill as they look from the bridge to the canyon way below. Explore the Treetops Adventure , too, where you follow a network of gently swaying wooden bridges to eight treehouse platforms in the forest. When you’re ready to go back downtown, catch the free shuttle.

For supper, let the kids play with the jukeboxes at retro diner The Templeton or slurp up a bowl of ramen at Hokkaido Ramen Santouka . The Korean shaved ice dessert called bingsoo, served at Snowy Village Dessert Café , makes a fun after-dinner treat.

Capilano suspension bridge feeding through forest

Day 4: UBC and Point Grey

Today, you’ll tour the museums on the University of British Columbia campus, check out another rainforest park, and then have time to relax at Jericho Beach .

From downtown, catch any UBC-bound bus to the campus bus loop. Walk over to the Museum of Anthropology , where there’s a fantastic collection of First Nations totem poles and other artifacts.

Another short walk takes you to the Beaty Biodiversity Museum , which has more than two million specimens of bugs, fish, plants, and fossils that the kids can explore, as well as a massive blue whale skeleton. One more campus attraction, located at the UBC Botanical Garden , is the Greenheart TreeWalk , a network of aerial bridges that takes you high into the rainforest canopy.

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Catch bus 99 to Point Grey Village (get off at W. 10th Ave. at Sasamat St.), where you can have a sandwich and a sweet at Mix the Bakery . After you’ve refueled, walk south to West 16th Avenue, where you can go for a stroll in the rainforest at Pacific Spirit Regional Park , which has more than 40 miles (70 kilometers) of hiking trails. The trails are fairly well marked, but the park is large, so you’ll need to pay attention to your route.

If the kids aren’t too tired, you can walk down to the Jericho Sailing Centre (it’s 1.25 miles, or two kilometers, straight down Trimble Street); if you’d rather go by bus, it’s fastest to take bus 25 or 33 on 16th Avenue back to the UBC Bus Loop, then change to bus 84, which will drop you on West 4th Avenue just above the beach. Have dinner overlooking the sand at The Galley Patio and Grill , go for a sunset kayak paddle , or simply sit on the beach and watch the sunset. When you’re ready to go back downtown, take bus 4 from West 4th Avenue.

Day 5: Richmond

Plan a whale-watching cruise today. Several operators run trips from Steveston Village in the suburb of Richmond , and most will include transportation from downtown. Spend the morning on the water looking for orcas, sea lions, and other aquatic life. Back on land, check out the fishing boats and vendors along the wharf, and stop for a fish-and-chips lunch at Pajo’s .

Richmond is the center of Vancouver’s Asian community, so instead of heading straight back downtown, catch bus 402, 407, or 410 from Steveston to Richmond’s Golden Village , where you can choose from countless Chinese restaurants for dinner. The kids might enjoy mapping out their route along Richmond’s Dumpling Trail (get a map at www.visitrichmondbc.com ) or choosing from the long list of bubble teas at Pearl Castle Café . If you’re in town on a weekend between mid-May and mid-October, wrap up your day at the Richmond Night Market , where there’s plenty of Asian food to sample, before catching the Canada Line back downtown.

Carolyn B. Heller

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Moon Vancouver: With Victoria, Vancouver Island & Whistler

by Carolyn B. Heller

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10 fabulous day trips from Vancouver

Jan 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Just 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Richmond has one of North America’s most exciting Asian-dining scenes © Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

There’s so much to see and do in Vancouver that you might forget to check out what the surrounding area has to offer.

You shouldn’t. With easy access to the rest of British Columbia , Vancouver is an ideal jumping-off point for day trips for gourmets, history buffs, outdoor adventurers and more.

Here are our top 10 favorite escapes from the city.

1. Raise a glass to the Port Moody beer train

Travel time: 1 hour

It’s no secret that BC’s craft-ale scene has surged in recent years. And while Vancouver is studded with lip-smacking tasting rooms, you can also take an unofficial “beer train” out to the suburbs for an afternoon of quaffing with the locals. Lining the street – sort of like...a row of beer taps – you’ll find several intriguing breweries, each with its own inviting tasting rooms and friendly bars.

How to get to Port Moody from Vancouver: Hop on the SkyTrain transit service from downtown Vancouver to Moody Centre Station (about 45 minutes), then walk across the bridge to Murray St in the heart of historic Port Moody.

A Seabus ferry on the water against the skyline of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

2. Cruise in Vancouver Harbour

Travel time: variable

If the water is calling your name, there are dozens of ways to leave the shore and hit the waves that surround Vancouver on three sides. Harbour Cruises ’ one-hour tour meanders alongside the city’s waterfront. And its half-day Indian Arm option is a much deeper excursion: as the city shrinks away, you’ll be slowly enveloped in a forested, sheer-cliffed natural wonderland that feels like a Norwegian fjord.

Look out for the community of Deep Cove on your cruise – and consider returning for a kayak or stand-up paddleboarding adventure. Deep Cove Kayak Centre offers tranquility-boosting guided tours from here that make you feel like cities were never invented.

How to get to Vancouver Harbour from Vancouver: There are many ways to hit the water in this port town. Harbour Cruises can be found near Devonian Harbour Park, with more options as you head into Stanley Park .

Lower Lonsdale and the Quay, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

3. Enjoy food, art and beer in North Vancouver

Travel time: 15 minutes

This ocean-facing city is home to the food stands and artisan boutiques of Lonsdale Quay Public Market , plus a once-gritty shipyard that’s been transformed in recent years with boardwalks, restaurants and boutiques (many of them in restored factory sheds). The highlight is the Polygon Gallery , a dramatic contemporary art space that lures culture fans from around the region. The beer in North Van also entices, with a clutch of microbreweries a 10-minute walk away on East Esplanade. Further inland is one of North Vancouver’s top attractions, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , easily reached by shuttle or bus from downtown.

How to get to North Vancouver from downtown Vancouver: Hop on the 12-minute SeaBus transit ferry from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, and you’ll step off in North Van.

A hiker on a hilltop overlooking the water, Bowen Island, British Columbia, Canada

4. Explore Bowen Island

Travel time: 1½ hours

Board a ferry and cruise past towering mountains and tree-covered islands to stunning Bowen Island. Step off in Snug Cove to explore wooden boardwalks, bright-painted storefronts and forest-lined trails where sightings of bald eagles and Bowen’s resident deer are common. Need more? Follow the trail to Opa, a gigantic ancient Douglas fir that’s a highlight for many visitors.

How to get to Bowen Island from Vancouver: Perhaps the best boat trip you can take in this region is the BC Ferries ’ service from West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island. The 250 express bus from downtown Vancouver takes you directly to the ferry dock; from there, it’s a 20-minute hop to Bowen.

Crowds at the Richmond Night Market, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada

5. Taste the world in Richmond

Travel time: 20 minutes

Richmond’s pan-Asian flavor reflects a community where many locals have roots in China, Korea, Vietnam and beyond. It’s also revered as the home of what is perhaps North America’s best Asian dining scene.

Start with lunch at Parker Place , a Hong Kong–style mall with a food court like a hawker market and dishes ranging from juicy pork buns to crispy Vietnamese subs. Then explore the nearby Aberdeen Centre ’s culturally immersive stores, which stock everything from Chinese teas to quirky Japanese dollar-store trinkets. (Save time for a Taiwanese shaved-ice treat in the upper-floor food court.)

Take the foodie theme further at the clamorous Richmond Night Market . Running Fridays to Sundays between May and October, it’s lined with over 100 steam-shrouded food stands. Arrive hungry and with a sense of culinary curiosity – and get ready for stinky tofu, dragon’s-beard candy, nori-topped Japanese fries and much, much more.

How to get to Richmond from Vancouver: Richmond is easy to reach from Vancouver on the Canada Line to Bridgeport Station.

A cable car descends in front of beautiful mountain scenery.

6. Ascend a mountain in 10 minutes in Squamish

The popular Sea to Sky Gondola is a super-scenic cable-car ride that whisks riders up a forested mountainside. The Squamish area ’s other attractions include the family-friendly Britannia Mine Museum – don’t miss the underground train ride – and the Railway Museum of British Columbia , with a delightful vintage-train collection. Also save time for Shannon Falls Provincial Park , home to one of BC’s highest waterfalls.

How to get to Squamish from Vancouver: Rent a car for the one-hour drive north of the city. This dramatic cliffside road is one of BC’s most spectacular routes and also home to several great attractions – mostly near the town of Squamish, less than an hour away. If driving is not an option, shuttles will take you from Vancouver to Squamish, including the BC Connector , Skylynx and the Squamish Connector .

7. Go birding on Iona Beach

Travel time: 45 minutes

If you’ve been meaning to try birding – a pastime that’s surged in popularity in recent years – BC’s Lower Mainland is also a hotbed of easy-access opportunities. Ladner’s Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary , Delta’s Boundary Bay Regional Park and North Vancouver’s Maplewood Flats Conservation Area are all justifiably popular. But Richmond’s Iona Beach Regional Park may be the best of the bunch.

Stretching along the Fraser River shoreline, this relatively compact green space is typically home to a huge diversity of local and visiting birds. Bring binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks, red-winged blackbirds, Anna’s hummingbirds and many more. It’s the kind of back-to-nature haven that couldn’t feel further from the bustling streets of downtown Vancouver.

How to get to Iona Beach from Vancouver: Travelers can drive to the park, which is located near Vancouver International Airport, or take the Canada Line Skytrain to the airport and a taxi from there.

Freshly caught fish in the harbor of Steveston Village, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada

8. Dine on fish, chips and history in Steveston

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This charming fishing village fringes the wide Fraser River. Yet its bobbing-boat-filled harbor isn’t just about wood-sided stores and great fish and chip joints (we recommend Pajo’s ): there’s tons of history here, too. Shipbuilding and fish processing made this one of BC’s busiest communities in the late 1800s, and its two National Historic Sites evoke the story perfectly. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery tells you what working as a “slimer” in a fish plant was like, while exhibits at the Britannia Heritage Shipyard illuminate everything from prohibition-era rum-running to the internment of Japanese Canadians during WWII.

How to get to Steveston from Vancouver: Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Richmond-Brighouse Station, then the 407 bus.

People walk along New Westminster Pier Park with the Port Mann Bridge in the background, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada

9. Visit the “Royal City” in New Westminster

Travel time: 25 minutes

New Westminster – aka the “Royal City” – was the region’s main settlement before Victoria took...the crown in 1866. Start your visit here by window-shopping on historic Columbia St. The landmark Anvil Centre is home to two free-entry attractions: the popular New Westminster Museum and the New Media Gallery , which mounts avant-garde contemporary exhibitions.

A few steps away, cross the train lines to the other side of the tracks and explore a restored linear park that runs alongside the Fraser River like a grass-fringed boardwalk. Look for public art and grand shoreline views here – herons and cormorant sightings included. Hungry? Check out the food stands at the indoor River Market nearby.

How to get to New Westminster from Vancouver : It’s a 25-minute SkyTrain ride from downtown to New West.

People on Cloudraker Skybridge, Whistler Mountain, British Columbia, Canada

10. Tackle the slopes in Whistler

Travel time: 2 hours

An hour past Squamish, the Sea to Sky Highway reaches Whistler . Locals and visiting ski and snowboard fans from around the world flock to this famous winter playground. Yet there are almost as many summer visitors to the area (whose icicle-draped alpine village is beautiful year-round). In town, don’t miss the striking Audain Art Museum – but also save time to plunge into the great outdoors.

Hiking and biking routes (rentals are available) appeal to folks of all abilities and energy levels; activities from zip-lining to river rafting are also on offer. Don’t miss a ride on the eye-poppingly scenic Peak 2 Peak Gondola (glass-bottomed car recommended), then inch across the lofty Cloudraker Skybridge , a steel suspension span with a see-through deck.

How to get to Whistler from Vancouver: As with Squamish, a number of shuttle buses including Epic Rides and Skylynx will get you there. Yet those who rent a car for the nearly two-hour drive will have maximum freedom.

This article was first published Mar 3, 2015 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

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The Perfect British Columbia 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Post summary: The perfect British Columbia Itinerary for a 5 day road trip from Vancouver to Whistler. Includes maps, places to stay, and a detailed day-to-day overview. (Last updated August 2022)

This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a small commission of any purchase you make using my link, at no cost to you!

Arguably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, Canada’s most western province boasts something to satisfy every type of adventurous spirit.

Crisp alpine air, vibrant moss in a lush northern rain forest, ghostly fog blanketing glacier capped mountain peaks. Crashing waterfalls, steamy hot springs, turquoise water, and the salty smell of the Pacific Ocean.

Those are the things that I love most about British Columbia. And I know you will love them too. That’s why I’ve gone ahead and written out our perfectly cohesive 5-day British Columbia road trip itinerary that’s guaranteed to make your adventure through this incredible province so unforgettable. .

Table of Contents

The Logistics

I was overly excited to start planning our British Columbia road trip. I scoured Pinterest, delved into the depths of every relevant forum I could find online and contacted everyone I knew who lived in the area in the hopes of scoring insider advice. My Google Maps were peppered with pins from all over the province: a few stops along the coast of Vancouver Island, Orca watching, road tripping back up through the city, then Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton to explore the alpine.

I took a deep breath and forced myself back into reality. There’s so much to see, so many options, so little time. So I recollected myself and settled on one small area. Fast forward a few days and too many cups of coffee later: I pinned some places we couldn’t miss, reserved a 4×4, and spoke with some locals. I finally had a tentative plan on how to make the most of our week around Whistler, British Columbia. .

The Route: Vancouver to Whistler (and beyond)

Our flight touched down in Vancouver at 10am. We picked up our rental car, stopped for Starbucks espresso and made last minute tweaks to our plan. Then, we headed straight toward Whistler. However, if you arrive in Vancouver late at night, you will want to add an extra day to spend the night in Vancouver and get your bearings before starting this road trip.

This road trip route snakes northward up the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler and Pemberton, and back down to Squamish , before ending with one last adventure in Vancouver.

DAY 1: BRANDYWINE FALLS TO WHISTLER

Brandywine Falls was our first stop on our drive to Whistler. The parking area is easily accessible from the road, so it only made sense to let one of the most iconic waterfalls in the area give us a proper welcome to British Columbia.

Brandywine Falls Trail to the Upper Viewing Platform

Rated : Easy
Distance : 1km, out and back
Season : year-round
Time needed : 30 minutes – 1 hour

Hiking to the base of Brandywine Falls in British Columbia

Brandywine Falls is nestled within Brandywine Provincial Park, where it crashes 70m into the volcanic valley that its carved out over thousands of years.

We spent several hours admiring the falls from the viewing platform, meandering through the forest, and scrambling the trail to the base of the falls.

Lush green moss, bright red pine bark, and the smell of earthy cedar hung in the air. The sound of frigid rushing water penetrated the silence around us. To say there was something magical about the forest at the base of the falls would be an understatement.

How to get to the base of Brandywine Falls

You’ll have to do a bit of off-roading if you wish to adventure to the bottom of Brandywine Falls.

To find the trailhead, hike past the viewing platform. At the very end of the main trail, you’ll find an unmarked and unmaintained path in the trees to the left of the fence.

NOTE: The trail is rugged and dangerous . There used to be a rope to help you navigate the steepest sections, but the rope is no longer there. You’ll have to climb down the steep sections, find your way down an arduous scree slope, follow an unmarked trail through the forest to the river, and then navigate the slippery rocks up to the falls. This path is not safe and should only be left to those who are fit, experienced, and willing to risk injury.

Hike time to the base of the falls : 2-3 hours .

Where to stay in Whistler

Pinnacle Hotel Whistler British Columbia

Budget ($): HI Whistler Hostel and Pinnacle Hotel Whistler

Moderate ($$): Legends Condo Hotel and Whistler Studio Airbnb

Splurge ($$$): Pan Pacific Whistler Village

DAY 2: JOFFRE LAKES

Joffre Lakes trail information (Lower Lake to Upper Lake)”

Rated: intermediate, some difficult steep sections
Distance: 10km, out and back
Time: 4-5 hours round-trip
Season: year-round
Camping allowed : yes

If you’ve ever seen a picture of British Columbia, chances are you’ve seen Joffre Lakes – the series of 3 glacial fed alpine lakes with a bright powdery blue complexion.

Joffre Lakes is the single most popular hike around Pemberton, BC and I’ll admit I was nervous to visit. I’ve seen so many photos of this place plastered all over social media.

Would it live up to the hype? Would it be filled with people? How would I feel about it after having seen the turquoise lake from seemingly every single perspective possible?

Those were a few thoughts that floated through my mind as we took the scenic drive from Whistler to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.

But I am so happy we went, because it turned out to be the highlight of our trip. And I’m thrilled to report that photos on Instagram don’t even do it justice.

From the parking lot, we followed the trail directly to the first lake. Then, we climbed steadily into the alpine as the forest changed and the trail delivered us from one lake to the next. Each more beautiful than the last. Sparkling glaciers, thick alpine forests, chubby little gray jays, pikas, and twinkling crystal waters took our breath away.

The entire hike took us about 6 hours round trip, including stops for photos, icy lake swims (ok, just me), and making friends with the gregarious gray jays.

The majority of people stop at the second lake, but do yourself a favor and spend the extra 15-20 minutes to reach the upper lake. You won’t be disappointed.

NOTE: Please practice responsible wildlife tourism and do not feed the gray jays !

You’ll see many people feeding the jays in an attempt to entice them to land in their hands. Its not cool. Help to keep them wild by not teaching them to rely on human food. They’re naturally very smart, very curious birds and will come to say hello on their own if you sit still.

We were told by a local that the hike to Joffre Lakes resembles more of a queue than a hike through the forest in the summer months, as thousands of people flock to see the famous blue waters. But thanks to traveling in the off season, we arrived that October morning to a half-full parking lot and the three alpine lakes almost all to ourselves.

The powder blue color of the water is seasonal, though. So do consider traveling here in the summer if you want to see it!

Hiking around Vancouver, British Columbia

DAY 3: NAIRN FALLS AND SLOQUET HOT SPRINGS

Stop 1: nairn falls.

Trail information:

Rating: easy
Distance: 3 km round-trip
Camping allowed: yes

Nairn Falls was not a planned stop on our itinerary, but more of a stop along the way from Whistler to Sloquet Hot Springs.

Nairn Falls is a brilliant green-blue waterfall that twists and weaves through a series of channels carved in the rock. From a beautifully constructed viewing platform, you can safely watch as the water crashes into a series of circular pools that are carved and polished by gravel carried down the river.

Located on our way north, we pulled off into the parking area under the impression that the falls were accessible from the road. Although not immediately accessible from the parking area, it only took us about 15-20 minutes to walk 1.5 km along the river to the falls.

Nairn Falls, Waterfalls of British Columbia

Stop 2: Sloquet Hot Springs

In the spirit of transparency, I’m not usually one to further publicize special places like this one. But honestly, if you’re game to put in the work to get here, then you deserve it.

The drive to Sloquet Hot Springs was long and exhausting. In hindsight, it would have been better to camp overnight at the springs instead of drive the 6 hours round-trip from Whistler in one day.

But we were warned about the distance. In my research I came across a disclaimer on not to be fooled by the “measly 63km” from Pemberton to Sloquet Hot Springs. And they were right.

We found ourselves weaving along an unpaved logging road in the middle of the wilderness for close to 3 hours. There were no other cars along that lonely stretch of road and we watched nervously as we our cell phone service dwindled to nothing.

The logging road to Sloquet Hot Springs near Vancouver

We came close to turning around countless times, but thankfully we [stubbornly] persisted, because this stop was more than worth it. We finally arrived at the camp ground and hiked 1km through the forest, where we saw steam rising above the tree line.

Soaking in the pool at Sloquet Hot Springs in British Columbia

Having arrived mid-afternoon, we joined a handful of other people lounging in the pools along the river. There’s ample room to spread out at Sloquet, with a few upper hot pools fed by a hot waterfall, cascading down into a series of smaller pools along the banks of the river.

We spent several hours rotating between the pools of varying temperatures and relaxing under the canopy of conifers. When the sun went down, we hiked out under the light of the milky way.

Sloquet Hot Springs Information

Getting there: Leave enough time for the drive. It takes about 3.5 hours to get there from Whistler. Download the map offline or be sure your GPS will work if you lose service. It would be smart to carry a satellite phone and other emergency essentials . Don’t attempt this drive without an SUV.

Cost and camping: $5CAD per person for use of the pools (cash only). Campsites are $15 and are first-come-first-served if you decide to stay the night. Note that the entrance money goes directly into maintenance of the area. Visit Sloquet’s website for the most up to date information.

Facilities: This is a natural area. Besides for a small changing wall besides the hot springs, there are no facilities near the hot springs. However, there is an outhouse at the top of the hill at the trail head, which is a short walk from the springs.

Nudity allowed: Yes. Clothing is optional here. Be mindful of nude soakers when you snap photos and be respectful of their choice (or even join them yourself, because when in Rome, amirite?)

DAY 4: SQUAMISH

Squamish is a beautiful mountain town between the drive from Whistler and Vancouver, located at the north end of Howe Sound along the Sea to Sky Highway.

We dedicated one full day to exploring Squamish , since everything we wanted to do was in the same immediate area.

Where to stay in Squamish British Columbia

Stop 1: Shannon Falls

the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. Truly an impressive sight, this waterfall is easily accessible from the road. You can make it a quick stop or choose to spend more time and hike to the top.

Stop 2: Sea to Sky Gondola

Right next door is the admission to the Sea to Sky Gondola. This gondola wasn’t our first choice, but the other gondolas that provided access to different hiking trails were closed for the season.

The price of a round-trip ticket for the Sea to Sky Gondola is $55 per person, but turned out to be well worth it for the best views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a suspension bridge, restaurant, and an array of hiking trails.

Sea to Sky Gondola views in British Columbia

Stop 3: Squamish Chief

Otherwise known as “the Chief”, these three summits are among the most popular hiking spots in British Columbia. It took us several hours to summit the first peak, where we were shocked to find we were the only people on top. Whether it was because we arrived just before sunset or because it was the off-season, we’ll never know, but we were completely delighted given the popularity of the hike.

Summit of Stawamus Chief, Squamish British Columbia

We spent awhile on the summit, perched high above the sprawling views of Howe Sound. After that, we descended the same steep trail we followed on the way up.

Squamish Chief Trail Information

Difficulty: intermediate to difficult
Distance: 11km
Elevation gain: 6020 meters
Time: 3-7 hours depending on your fitness level and number of peaks
Season: March – November

NOTE : the south peak (peak 1) is a decent climb with a 500m elevation gain. This peak offers the most rewarding views, so many people stop here. However, if you’ve got about 6-7 hours, a good fitness level, and plenty of energy, you can hike all 3 peaks in one day. .

READ NEXT: What to Pack for a Day Hike: Essential Gear and Complete Packing List

Where to stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins in Squamish British Columbia

Budget ($): Squamish Adventure Inn Hostel and Squamish Tiny Cabin

Moderate ($$): Midnight in Paradise Cottage and Sunwolf Riverside Cabins

Splurge ($$$): Private Waterfront Cabin Airbnb and Ocean View Tea Tree House

DAY 5: VANCOUVER

Like many people who are first drawn to Vancouver, I dreamed about one day visiting the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, a 450ft suspension bridge hanging 230ft above the Capilano River. It’s been in magazines, on postcards, and all over social media. Like, did you even visit Vancouver if you didn’t visit Capilano?

The answer is yes .

Here’s why: we were immediately turned off by the (almost) $50CAD entrance fee , per person. Not to mention the advertisements for tour buses and 11am entrance hours. Paying $50CAD for an overcrowded bridge just didn’t seem quite worth it anymore.

But here’s the good news: Where we would have paid for probably 30 minutes at Capilano, we instead spent 2 hours exploring the wilderness around Lynn Canyon. Of course the suspension bridge wasn’t of the same caliber as that at Capilano, but to me, it was even more beautiful. It was also free, less touristy, and perfectly wild for being outside of a major city.

NOTE : the suspension bridge is still a suspension bridge. And, consequently, attracts many visitors regardless of the advertised popularity. So if you want uninterrupted photos on the bridge, test your patience waiting for the perfect shot, or get there early!

If you opt to visit here, allow time to explore the trails that will lead you to aquamarine swimming holes, waterfalls, and through an interpretive nature trail.

Best things to do around Vancouver, British Columbia

When you’re done here, then you’re only 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver! .

Where to stay in Vancouver

Skwachays Aboriginal Themmed Lodge in Vancouver

Budget ($): HI Hostel Downtown Vancouver and Olympic Village Condo

Moderate ($$): Skwachàys Aboriginal Themed Lodge and Unique Gastown Loft

Splurge ($$$): The Douglas and The Burrard

Final Thoughts

Two years ago I had vowed to return to Vancouver after a layover on a cheap flight to Hawaii . Through the plane windows, I had watched the a thick blanket of fog swirling over the mountains around the sound; the city skyline looming in the distance. I returned to British Columbia one year later when we hopped across the border to visit the emerald waters within Yoho National Park during a trip through Alberta. That time, I knew for sure that this province had a hold on me.The

And here I was. Back for a third time. Road tripping the seaside highways from Vancouver to Whistler, rooting myself in moments spent wandering through the Pacific Northwest rain forest, and being sure to take an extra deep breath of alpine air for the road.

There’s something seriously magic about this place. And, still captivated, I know I’ll be back again. .

Get this Vancouver Road Trip on Google Maps

Access the road trip itinerary on an interactive Google Map. Access the map on Google Map here

British Columbia 5 Day Road Trip on Google Maps

How to Get Around for a British Columbia Road Trip

The best way to complete this itinerary is with a rental car. You don’t need a 4×4 to road trip between Vancouver and Whistler, but I do recommend one for visiting Sloquet Hot Springs.

Best Time to Visit Vancouver

In my opinion, the best time to visit Vancouver, British Columbia is in the shoulder season, which lasts from April – early June and September – October. During these months, you will find great deals on accommodation and a lot of popular hiking trails will be nearly empty. Just be prepared for some rainy, chilly days.

However, if you don’t mind crowds and are willing to pay a bit more, summer is also a great time to for a Vancouver road trip. Long days and good weather are ideal for hiking and road tripping.

Extend Your British Columbia Road Trip

Have more time to spare? Add another 5 days and extend your Vancouver road trip west onto Vancouver Island.

If you have even more time, add 7 days and drive east toward Alberta to visit Yoho, Banff, Jasper, and Kootenay National Parks.

Read next: How to Spend 1 Day in Yoho National Park

Always Remember to Leave No Trace

The concept of Leave No Trace is built on seven core principles widely utilized for enjoying the outdoors responsibly and with sustainable, minimum impact.

The Leave No Trace principles apply to all outdoor activities – from the backcountry to local parks to your own backyard. Leave No Trace is based on respect for nature and other visitors. It’s also supported by scientific research conducted on recreation-related impact to our wild places.

In a collective effort to keep the beautiful places listed above wild and free for generations to come, please leave all areas better than you found them and practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace:

Plan ahead and be prepared
Travel and camp on durable surfaces
Dispose of your waste properly – carry out what you carry in
Leave what you find
Minimize campfire impacts – be aware of campfire rules and regulations
Respect wildlife! (Don’t feed the gray jays)
Be considerate of other visitors

More for your Canada road trip

Traveling Banff on a Budget: Effective Ways to Save Money on Lodging, Food, and Transportation

1-Day Yoho National Park Road Trip Itinerary

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A 5 Day British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary Pin

Hi, I’m Jackie! I’m a travel photographer and content creator based near the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. I’m also a millennial who works full-time, yet I still find ways to travel frequently without breaking the bank, because traveling is what makes me feel most alive. Now I help fellow travelers who also work 9-5 and are looking for ways to travel more with limited PTO.

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One comment.

Hi Jackie! I enjoyed your blog on the BC 5 day road trip. You really packed a LOT into 5 days!!!! Most of us who live in BC would do that in 1.5 weeks! If you get back to BC I highly recommend getting the paperback version of this book. The New B.C. Roadside Naturalist: A Guide to Nature along B.C. Highways. It’s by a geologist and points out all the interesting bits you are passing by the car window on your travels. BC has a very complex geological history, so it has produced many varied mini-climate zones. Another gem is the BC hot spring spots on FaceBook. Most are off of logging roads but are worth the visit and smallish hikes to access. BC has such a tiny population (other than Vancouver) that we love it when people have enough tenacity to visit all the out of the way places. Another gem is the water access only spots along the coast by eco-tourism “cruise” ship like the MV Uchuck (West coast of Vancouver Island) https://www.getwest.ca/cruises/schedule/ and the Aruroa Marine Link (East coast of Vancouver Island and remote mainland costal and First Nations communities) https://marinelinktours.com/routes/ . Hopefully your editor, sponsor, can fund your adventures on these visits back to BC. It’s well worth it! I sent my parent on both of these “cruises” in their 70’s. They LOVED it as it was not as ecologically sensitive and they got to see the “real” working coast of BC as well as meet some VERY well educated other guest: very influential (retired) ocean biologists and academics who made fascinating dinner guests!!! The food was fabulous – as fresh as it gets seafood every night, made by a very creative chef in a very efficient (aka super small) galley kitchen

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Home » North America » Canada » 13 AMAZING Day Trips to Take in Vancouver | 2024 Guide

13 AMAZING Day Trips to Take in Vancouver | 2024 Guide

Vancouver the biggest city in British Colombia, and packed with exciting things to do. It’s also a great spot to base yourself for taking some day trips around the province.

The landscape is so diverse you could find yourself exploring wineries, hot springs, snowcapped mountains, and dynamic cities all within a short drive from one another. Half-day tours and full-day tours are an epic way to see more, without having switch from accommodation to accommodation.

Let’s take a look at the top day trips in Vancouver . From hiking adventures to winery tours and so much more, there is something for everyone. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to see some of the best scenery and hotspots around Vancouver.

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Getting around Vancouver, and Beyond

Half-day trips in vancouver, full-day trips in vancouver, final thoughts on day trips from vancouver.

Vancouver is a must-see when visiting Canada . As popular as it is, it’s no surprise Vancouver has a safe, reliable, and efficient public transport system.

Downtown Vancouver is known for being super walkable. When you want to explore the outskirts, taxis are in abundance, and super easy to hail. There are designated taxi stands where you can find drivers ready and waiting.

If you fancy driving yourself, there are car rental companies in abundance. Parking downtown can get busy – check out the EasyPark app to locate available parking in advance. Cycling is super common around the city almost year-round. There are loads of dedicated cycling lanes and paths that make it a very safe way to get around.

TransLink operates the bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus networks, as well as the West Coast Express train. All of these public transports are wheelchair accessible, and can be used to enjoy day trips from Vancouver to the outlying districts surrounding the city.

Buses in Vancouver run from 5am to 1am, and are convenient, efficient, and affordable. The SkyTrain light rail system has three different lines that operate between downtown and the city’s suburban areas. You can stay anywhere in Vancouver and still find it easy to get from hotspot to hotspot. This train also connects the city to Vancouver International Airport. The SeaBus is a ferry service that connects the Vancouver Waterfront to Lonsdale Quay on the North Shore.

Fares for TransLink depend on the zone in which you are traveling. If you’re visiting Vancouver for a while, purchasing a Compass Card will be in your favor. Alternatively, you could pay with contactless payment, cash, or card.

The prices for one-way tickets on public transportation are:

Zone 1: $3.05
Zone 2: $4.35
Zone 3: $5.90

When you’re running short on time, there are tons of amazing half-day tours that you can take around Vancouver. You can explore hot springs, vineyards, and exquisite mountain views all in a short hour’s drive away from the city.

Stawamus Chief Mountain

If it’s an adventure that you’re after, ditch the city life and head straight for the mountains. Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is just a 45-minute drive from Vancouver and boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails.

Rising over 2000 feet above the Squamish region, Stawamus Chief Peak is one of America’s largest granite monoliths. It’s also one of the most famous rock climbing monoliths in the world. The granite climbing walls – The Apron and The Grand Wall – should only be attempted by seasoned climbers.

A gentle family hike to the top of the peak will certainly impress, boasting some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever set your eyes on. There are three different peaks to hike with different elevation gains. When it’s your first time visiting, we recommend going with a guide who knows the ins and outs of the mountain for a true adventure.

Although a visit to Stawamus Chief Mountain can be done as a half-day trip, these guided full-day tours could convince you to extend your visit.

Suggested trips: Stawamus Chief Hike and Photography and Stawamus Chief Hike and Local Brewery Tasting

The Gulf Islands

One of the biggest draws to the region are the beautiful islands and bays that surround the city. Just two hours from the city center, a visit to the Gulf Islands is one of the best day trips to take in Vancouver.

You’ll need to hop on a ferry for this one, or you could book a private tour.

The Gulf Islands are the Canadian siblings of the USA’s San Juan Islands, which are just across the bay from one another, and all a quick ferry ride away.

If you’re into kayaking, I’d recommend a visit to Pender Island. The waters are calm and clear, so this trip will be more a relaxing adventure than an adrenaline-pumping one. When you get peckish, the Saturday farmers market on Spring Salt Island is a great spot for a lunch stop.

There’s so much to explore you could extend your trip with a stay at this cute cottage with beautiful ocean views on Galiano Island. Galiano has a beautiful mountain you can hike up for exquisite bay views. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Olympic Mountain Range in Washington, USA.

Suggested trips: Whale Watching Adventure

Whether you visit in the midst of winter or during the warmer summer months, there are countless day trips in Vancouver. Struggling to choose from the countless options on the internet? We picked out the very best tours from the city to make your life a bit easier.

Fraser Valley

Just two hours east of Vancouver, Fraser Valley is a beautiful farmland area where you can find much more than just beautiful landscapes and views.

The small villages in the valley are overflowing with local produce and home-cooked menus waiting for you to try out. Many of the local private farms are open to the public, where kids can play on the lush lawns, explore the grounds, and get up close and personal with farm animals.

You’ll also find the Chilliwack River in this area, which is a hotspot for white water rafting – talk about an adrenaline kick. There are lots of cultural sites to visit, including an indigenous site of the Stó:lo people and a 9000-year-old archeological dig.

Throw in some local breweries and incredible river fishing opportunities, and you have one of the best day trips in Vancouver for the whole family!

Suggested trips: Fraser Valley Winery Tour and Fraser Valley Day Tour

Langdale and The Sunshine Coast

Vancouver is a top destination for culture seekers and artists. The Sunshine Coast, located just two and a half hours from Vancouver, is as lovely as its name. It’s a stretch of coastline tucked away in the SouthWest corner of mainland British Colombia, and is locally known as the region’s hidden gem.

You can enjoy whale watching from the bay, forest adventures, hikes, white water rafting, waterfall hunting, and shipwreck exploring. There’s so much more to see than just the great outdoors. Be sure to check out the quaint harbors, local breweries, and trendy eateries, too.

An indigenous homeland of the la’amin, Klahoose, shíshálh, Skwxwú7mesh, and Homalco Nations, remember to be respectful of their beautiful land when you visit.

Suggested trips: Sunshine Coast Art Tour and Tour of The Sunshine Coast

Whistler

If there’s anywhere in British Colombia you’ve heard about, it’s likely to be the ski resort town of Whistler. This world-class destination is only an hour and a half out of the city, making it one of the easiest day trips from Vancouver.

The town has a super laid-back and down-to-earth vibe that will keep you entertained for days, even if you don’t like to ski or snowboard. The famous attraction in Whistler is the world-record-breaking Peak 2 Peak gondola which boasts some of the most beautiful views of Whistler Village, the mountain peaks, glaciers, forests, and lakes.

Not only is this legendary spot an amazing ski resort in Northern America, it’s also a hiker’s paradise year-round. When you visit during fall, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of colors across the forest landscape.

This is one of those trips that is super easy to do without following an official tour. You can rent a car or hop on a two-hour train ride from the city. If only a day in the snow isn’t enough for you, why not extend your trip and spend some time in this creekside studio that’s just a short walk from the ski lifts?

Suggested trips: Sea to Sky Gondola and Whistler Trip , Whistler Tour: Horseshoe Bay and Shannon Falls and Tour to Discover Whistler

Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

The Butchard Gardens are a coveted attraction, located less than three hour’s drive from Vancouver with a ferry ride. The gardens are just north of the capital of British Colombia, Victoria, which has a unique colonial British history. In fact, this lush city is pretty much made up of beautiful gardens; the Butchart Gardens is just one of them.

Naturally, the best time to visit is during spring, but these gardens will exceed your expectations year-round. You’ll be able to explore 26 greenhouses and 900 different varieties of plants in this colorful and historic garden which has been blooming for over 100 years.

If you don’t feel like visiting with an organized tour, you can buy your day pass online and explore the gardens alone.

Suggested trips: Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain has a 4100-foot elevation in the North Shore Mountains. During the winter months, it gets tons of snow and is one of the best (and closest) alpine ski areas to the city of Vancouver. It’s a quick 20 minutes from the city on Route 99, making it easy to visit from the city and get some powder laps in.

You could go with a tour, rent a car, or use the train to get to the resort and get your own private ski passes. If skiing and snowboarding aren’t for you, take advantage of the kids ‘Sliding Zone’, ice skating, or snowshoeing adventures offered at the base of the mountain.

Like any ski resort, there are a bunch of shops to explore and restaurants to try out in the village.

Suggested trips: North Shore Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain

The North Shore Mountains

The North Shore Mountains are located, you guessed it, on the north shore of Vancouver, boasting spectacular views of the city.

All three of the mountain peaks – Grouse, Seymour, Cypress – offer skiing and snowboarding activities as well as tons of summer hiking trails and ziplining adventures.

These mountains have been attracting hikers and climbers for years because of their conveniently close proximity to Vancouver. While much of the area is family-friendly, a lot of the trails get steep very quickly and are only recommended for advanced backcountry hikers.

Suggested trips: North Shore Mountains, Grouse, Seymour, Cypress

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a seaside town west of Vancouver that is home to a major ferry port, connecting the mainland with Vancouver Island. While most tourists just pass through this village to catch a ferry, the town itself is definitely worth a visit if you have the time.

It’s under an hour’s drive from the center of the city. There’s even a bus that departs every 30 minutes that can take you directly to the bay. The town is designed for pedestrians, where most streets are safe to walk around without having to worry about cars. There’s a variety of restaurants to choose from when you get peckish, too. Our favorites are Olive and Anchor, and the Boathouse Restaurant.

If you get around quicker than expected, hop on the Bowen Island ferry. This short 20-minute ferry ride will take you to a nearby island with an artisan square, museum, golf course, and (surprise, surprise) more breathtaking views.

Suggested trips: British Colombia Coastline Day Trip

Vancouver Island

You didn’t think we’d leave out a Vancouver Island day trip, did you? If you’ve never visited before, you might think Vancouver Island and the city of Vancouver are the same place. However, while they share the same bay, Vancouver Island is a two and a half hour trip from the city of Vancouver.

You’ll need to catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to get there, but once you arrive, you’ll see what the hype is about. This huge island combines everything from cultured cuisine to raw nature. Most people visit for the majestic nature reserves and parks, which are home to exciting wildlife, including black bears and orcas.

Among other activities, you can spend your day whale watching, hiking, and kayaking around the island.

The land is a traditional ancestral home to the Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Coast Salish peoples. Visitors are urged to respect the land and its people.

Suggested trips: Vancouver Island Cycling Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting

Squamish is a municipality and close-knit community just north of the Howe Sound. It’s a quick one-hour drive from the city, and a convenient location for a day trip from Vancouver.

The main attraction is the Stawamus Chief hike, which we covered above. However, there’s a lot more to this area than its beautiful granite cliff faces and hiking trails. Shannon Falls is an exquisite wild waterfall just a mile south of Squamish. There’s also the Elaho River and Squamish River where you can try out river-rafting activities.

Squamish also has a world-class golf course, and when the weather is cold, it’s great for experienced backcountry skiers and snowmobilers.

Suggested trips: Squamish with Porteau Cove and Britannia and The Great Squamish Day Trip

Fort Langley

Fort Langley is a quaint town located about 45 minutes east of Vancouver on the Fraser River. The town has a long colonial history which can be seen in the beautiful old buildings and architectural styles.

The town itself is home to a bunch of museums, shops, galleries, parks, and restaurants to explore. But it’s the surrounding vineyards that we’re most interested in! You can find some of Canada’s best wineries in this region.

It is a great place for history buffs and wine fanatics alike, and you’ll learn more about cultivation and winemaking from both grapes and berries.

Suggested trips: Fort Langley Magical Mystery and Vineyard Explorer

Harrison Hot Springs

Sometimes, all we feel like is a bit of relaxation and rejuvenation at a spa. A trip to the Harrison Hot Springs might just be the best Vancouver day trip for the job. Located on the northern shore of Harrison Lake, surrounded by towering mountains, the Harrison Springs Resort and Spa is a luxurious place to spend a day.

It’s more than just a fancy hotel. It has five healing hot mineral spring pools and a therapeutic spa.

You’ll be able to spend the day soaking in the relaxing springs, which are said to have healing properties. Make sure you also visit the village or walk along Harrison Lake before you head home.

Suggested trips: Harrison Hot Springs Private Tour

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

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…

Don’t Forget Your Vancouver Travel Insurance

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.

The city of Vancouver is conveniently located between oceans, mountains, and forests and is only a short distance from British Columbia’s capital city of Victoria. It’s also has a unique and interesting indigenous history to share.

Depending on your preference for natural beauty or culture (and the time of year you visit), my two favorite tours would have to be the Victoria and Butchart Gardens tour, and the Whistler Ski Resort tour. There’s not much better than driving a quick hour and arriving in a powder draped ski resort.

You’ll be able to take some of the best day trips from Vancouver without having to travel more than a couple of hours at most.

Sheridan Cahoon

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Unforgettable 5-day Vancouver Island Road Trip itinerary

From mountains to forests to beaches and the ocean, Vancouver Island has it all. Use this 5 day itinerary for a Vancouver Island road to find the must see places on Canada’s west coast. | My Wandering Voyage travel blog #VancouverIsland #BritishColumbia #Canada #Travel

Vancouver Island is a magical, forested, natural beauty off the coast of British Columbia. From mountains to beaches, this sizable island has it all. There’s so much to see here that it will be hard to fit it into a five-day Vancouver Island road trip, but let’s try!

NOTE: Travel is not recommended at this time. These posts are here to serve as inspiration when we can explore again. Hey there – this post likely contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase from them. This helps me earn a few dollars to run this website.

What you need to know about a Vancouver Island Road Trip

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Vancouver Island, and much of coastal British Columbia, is known for its temperate climate. But, also for its wacky weather. It rains a lot here, and the humidity is unreal. When you go out for a hike, make sure you have good tread for the slick or mucky conditions. A light rain jacket is a good idea too.

The roads are reasonably well-kept on the island, but once you start venturing further out, the more rugged the roads become. Make sure your car can handle the road conditions. Also, make sure to keep your gas tank relatively full. Some of the stops are further than you’d expect. (The island is larger than the country of Belgium, after all.) But, cell signal isn’t great once you leave Port Alberni, so you won’t be able to call out if you run out of gas.

How to get to Vancouver Island

Getting to Vancouver Island | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Vancouver Island is, wait for it, an island! *gasp* So you’ll have to find some way of getting there. There are three options.

The best option is to rent a car and take one of the many ferries that cross over to the island. It’s the easiest way to have everything you need with you before setting off for the island, and you don’t have to worry about other transportation.

The second option would be to be a foot passenger on the ferry then rent a car once you arrive on the island. Sure, you’ll save yourself the $60 for the ferry fee, but the ferry terminals aren’t close to the towns, so you’ll have to arrange transportation to and from, which adds on to your costs.

The third option is to fly. There are airports (both on land or in the harbour) that you could travel to then rent a car once you land. It’s not a particularly economical option, but an option none-the-less.

BC Ferries Vancouver Island | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

I quite enjoyed the ferry ride across the Georgia Strait. It was a calm and scenic journey. The boat was quite large (and fit so many cars!). It had a restaurant, a gift shop, a business lounge and a kids play area.

BC Ferries says its busiest times are on holiday weekends, with peak volumes on Thursday and Friday afternoons, Saturday mornings and Monday afternoons. They highly suggest that mid-week, mid-morning sailing times would be best for a less crowded travel experience.

For most travel crossings, you want to be there at least 30 minutes before your boarding time. I suggest at least one hour before for busy summer travel times. But check the BC Ferries website for up-to-date, accurate information.

For those who may have never boarded a ferry before, it can be an intimidating process. Once you check in to the terminal, you will be told to sit and wait in a lane until boarding. You can leave your car, but someone (a driver) must be with the vehicle at all times. Be careful of traffic in other lanes, and, for everyone’s sanity, make sure you’re back in your car before boarding so you don’t hold up everyone behind you.

Then as you drive up onto the boat, attendants will point you to where you park inside the belly of the ship. Follow the signs on board for how close to park to the person in front of you. Then turn off your car, head up the stairwell (noting where you parked) and enjoy the ride!

Driving on Vancouver Island | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

There are a couple of ways to get around on Vancouver Island, but the most efficient will be your own car. This will allow you the freedom of your own itinerary, rather than waiting for public transportation. This Vancouver Island road trip is for people with vehicles since there are a couple of stops you’ll want to make in the interior of the island too!

But, there are other options. Just do your research and make reservations as much as possible.

Bus – The Vancouver Island Connector is a transit system that connects the towns all over the city. They have a couple of regular stops, like Victoria, Nanaimo and Tofino, but you can make reservations to stop at one of their many locations. Tickets aren’t super cheap, but depending on how long you are here, it might be the more economical option.

Seaplane – If you’d rather spend your time travelling in the air, then seaplane travel is for you. Unfortunately, there are no direct routes. For example, you could fly from Vancouver harbour to Nanaimo, then back to Vancouver to head to Tofino, then back again in order to fly to Victoria. Obviously, the weather will have a big part to play in landing on the water, that’s why many of their routes are seasonal. But it’s quite the experience!

Water taxi – In Victoria, you can hop onto the water taxis to effortlessly take you from one part of the harbour to the other. It’ll save you some walking time.

whale watching near Victoria BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

On this Vancouver Island Road Trip, you’ll taste the Nanaimo Bar Trail, marvel at giant trees, beach comb at a National Park, hike in a rainforest, go surfing in Tofino, see the capital city and spot whales in the wild. Sound like fun? Let’s go!

Day one of a Vancouver Island Road Trip is all about getting to the islands and seeing your first sights. While it will only take half a day to get from the mainland all the way to the west coast of Vancouver Island, you’ll want to take your time to enjoy the stops along the way, like tasting delicious treats in Nanaimo and marvelling the giants at Cathedral Grove.

The first stop you’ll want to enjoy is the 1.5-hour crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay. I loved the smooth ride staring out the windows on the ship lookout out over the blue channel and seeing all the islands dotting the horizon. This crossing made me appreciate how wild much of British Columbia really is.

A Nanaimo Bar in Nanaimo BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

When you arrive on Vancouver Island at Departure Bay, you’ll want to make the detour to Nanaimo, rather than heading straight to the western coast. Not only do they have an interesting downtown, but the town also boasts a Nanaimo Bar Trail.

You cannot leave Nanaimo without eating a Nanaimo bar. The coconut custard chocolate dessert bar’s history is a bit mysterious. No one really knows where the origins of the dessert came from, but the first time it was mentioned was in the 1950s in Edith Adam’s Cookbook and published in the Vancouver Sun.

Tourism Nanaimo has a 34-stop Nanaimo bar trail. From the traditional Nanaimo bar to a Nanaimo bar cinnamon bun to a Nanaimo bar pedicure – there is everything related to this delicious dessert.

Other things you should check out in Nanaimo include the Old City Quarter (with its colourful buildings), the Bastion and the 12 o’clock gun.

After you’ve had a grand old time checking out what Nanaimo has to offer, it’s time to hit the road toward Tofino.

RELATED: Sweet dreams are made of this: Nanaimo, British Columbia

Giant trees in Cathedral Grove Macmillan Provincial Park | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Your first and most important stop along the way should be at the Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. Located along Highway 4, you can’t miss the small parking lots located on either side of the road.

Once you stop, you’re greeted with giant Douglas Firs that reach up to the sky. Some of the trees here are over 800 years old. The largest tree stands 76 metres, which is 20 metres taller than the leaning tower of Pisa.

There are two trails, each winding like a figure eight on both sides of the road. On the south side, you’ll find the Douglas Firs that stand sentinel in the forest. On the northern side, you’ll find the ancient cedar groves. Both trails are not very long and are easy to walk, so take your time and hike both.

Sights along Hwy 4 on Vancouver Island | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

As you drive from Nanaimo to Tofino, you’ll pass a few interesting places. Like the hole in the wall, a natural attraction outside of Port Alberni. This short trail, only 700 metres off the highway leads you to a human-made hole in the rock that was taken back by nature, becoming a waterfall.

Continuing along the Pacific Rim Highway, you’ll pass Taylor Arm Provincial Park, Sutton Pass Ecological Reserve, Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park and Kennedy Lake Provincial Park before coming to the fork in the road that will take you to either Tofino or Ucluelet.

Another stop on the Vancouver Island Road trip that you have to make is at Wally Creek. This pull-off from the highway. With crystal clear water, it’s a cool spot for swimming in the summer. Plus, there’s also a love lock fence that’s fun to peruse.

Fair warning, the Pacific Rim Highway is not for the faint of heart. After clearing Sproat Lake, the rest of the journey follows the twists and turns of the Kennedy River valley for 42 kilometres. And while the scenery is gorgeous, you need to keep your eyes on the road to watch for falling rocks, tight turns and sections of the mountains that jut over the highway.

RELATED: Visit wild Tofino, British Columbia

Wya Point Yurts | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Once you make it to the fork in the road, you can decide which way you’d like to go. I stayed at Wya Point Resort , an Indigenous-owned (Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ) resort with cabins, yurts and campgrounds.

Falling asleep in the dark, with the stars above me, listening to the sound of the waves beat against the rocky beach was one hell of an experience.

Wya Point Resort is located just south of the fork – also known as The Junction. Each yurt has a perfect view of the beach and the Pacific Ocean both inside and out on the private deck. Yurts come equipped with a comfortable bed, bedding, a kitchenette (really just a wash station and dishes), a gas fireplace, and a small generator to run the lights. There are no washroom facilities in the yurt, but a common facility with bathrooms and showers is nearby.

inside the Wya Point yurt | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

I was unbelievably impressed with Wya Resort . I still dream about how quiet the night was, except for the sound of the ocean with that feeling of being in the middle of nowhere and at peace.

I stayed at Wya Resort for the duration of my stay in the Tofino area. I used it as my jumping-off point for all the other adventures!

Looking to book a stay in Tofino/Ucluelet, use this handy map to find the perfect place:

Day two of a Vancouver Island Road trip consists of exploring the gorgeous and wild Pacific Rim National Park. Watch the surfers rip on the constant waves, walk along the shore on the lookout for wild animals and hike into the depths of Canada’s Rainforest.

Pacific Rim National Park, BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

At Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. Quite literally, you are on the western coast of Vancouver Island with nothing but ocean in front of you.

British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, one of 47 parks in Canada, is one of the best places to explore Canada’s Temperate Rainforest. It protects over 500 square kilometres of forest, beach and ocean on Vancouver Island. With activities like hiking and surfing, it is an excellent place for adventure seekers.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve encompasses three units of Vancouver Island’s western coast – Long Beach, Broken Islands and West Coast Trail.

The most popular and most easily accessible unit is Long Beach. Spanning from Tofino to Ucluelet, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve features beaches, trails and forest.

While you explore the park, make sure to stop at the Visitor Centre at The Junction and the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.

Beaches along Pacific Rim National Park BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

The Long Beach unit actually encompasses several beaches along the coastline, from Halfmoon Bay in the south to Florencia Bay, South Beach, Lismer Beach, Wickaninnish Beach, Combers Beach, Long Beach.

Take your pick. Enjoy the surfers play in the waves, look for starfish and other underwater creatures in the tide pools, spot eagles flying gracefully overhead as the wind whips around you.

The Rainforest Loop Trail in Pacific Rim National Park, BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

There are a ton of hiking options in Pacific Rim National Park. From the very short, 200m trail at Radar Hill that leads you to the Kap’Yong Memorial to the multi-day challenging 75km West Coast Trail.

But you can’t leave Vancouver Island without walking through the Rainforest! The Rainforest Trail in Pacific Rim National Park takes you through the temperate Rainforest that makes BC so unique. The trail consists of two 2km loops on either side of the highway.

Each loop takes you through moss-covered boardwalks, up and downstairs, over and under giant trees. It is absolutely breathtaking, and a moment of reflection will reveal how small we are in the world.

RELATED: Exploring British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Outside Break surfers village, Vancouver Island | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Developed close to Chesterman Beach, Outside Break is a surfer’s village complete with shops, food kiosks, and a grocery store. You’ll definitely need to make Outside Break one of your stops on a Vancouver Island road trip. Here you’ll find cute shops like Chocolate Tofino, Groovy Movies and Bike Rentals, Sol Maya Glass Blower, and many more.

This is where Live to Surf, the original Tofino surf shop, started back in the 80s. Make sure to check out Tacofino Cantina – the original Tacofino, which sparked a delicious taco movement into Vancouver. If you’re not full of tacos, then also get some fish and chips at Wildside Grill. Honestly, the best goddamn fish and chips I have ever tasted in my life.

Surfing in the Pacific Ocean requires a full-body wetsuit, boots and gloves. It’s freezing, even in summer. But how exhilarating! Day three of a Vancouver Island road trip lets you ride the waves, explore the gorgeous surfer town of Tofino and, if you have time, head out to the hot springs deep in the island’s archipelago.

Surfing near Tofino | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

One of the most amazing adventures I had on my Vancouver Island road trip was a beginner surfing lesson I had in Tofino. I had never surfed before, so why not throw myself into the rough, cold waters of the Pacific Ocean in Tofino?

The ocean here is not one to mess around with. Sure, you can rent your equipment and go by yourself, but if you’re inexperienced, that’s just a dumb idea.

I’m not going to lie, all morning I was a ball of nerves. There was a high wind warning for the area, making the waves extra powerful, but everyone at the surf shop was chill about it, so I let myself relax.

There are so many surf shops in Tofino that you can have your pick with which one will fit you best. After researching thoroughly, I chose Surf Sister for my first time surfing adventure.

Not only do I love their model for teaching, but I connected with the owner’s story. She wanted to have a shop that helped female surfers make their mark in Tofino. And get this – she succeeded. Surf Sister is a popular shop in Tofino, and their instructors are absolutely incredible and specialize in making a comfortable environment for beginners.

RELATED: Ultimate list of books and destinations for a Canadian road trip

I heart Tofino written in the sand | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

After surfing, you’ll want to explore Tofino. I see why people love it here. Tofino is a small coastal town at the western edge of Vancouver Island. It’s surrounded by water on three sides, meaning there’s only one way in and out of town. It’s a small town with delicious eats and cool cafes, but what I enjoyed most about Tofino is the adventurous culture that helped it become a top destination for travellers.

While you’re in town, make sure to check out Tofino Coffee Roasting Co. and Rhino Coffee House for your morning cup of coffee. For meals, try the Wolf in the Fog, Sea Monster Noodle Bar or Ice House Oyster Bar for a place to dig in. And for shopping, be sure to stop into Caravan Beach Shop and Mermaid Tales Bookshop for unique souvenirs.

You’ll also want to check out Chesterman Beach, the beach of choice for many visitors of Tofino!

Bald Eagle overhead in Tofino | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

If you’re up for a short hike through the forest, then check out the Tonquin Park trail, which leads you through old-growth forest and beautiful view of the surrounding landscape to Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach. While the trek to the Tonquin Beach is only 800 metres, the whole loop is 3km of boardwalk and gravel trail

If you’d rather go hiking in a remote place that ends in a hot spring than throwing yourself into the waves of the Pacific Ocean, then you won’t want to miss going to Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park.

The island is only accessible by a 1-1.5 hour boat ride from Tofino. Once you get off on the dock, the Hot Springs Cove is located at the end of a 2km boardwalk hike (that includes quite a few stairs).

Once there, you’re on a remote island. There’s no freshwater (bring your own), and you’ll want to bring a dry bag since it’s often very wet there. Lastly, enjoy the boat ride; you never know what creatures you’ll spot on your journey.

RELATED: Explore beautiful British Columbia in 10 days

On day four of a Vancouver Island road trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Tofino and make your way to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Here’s where you can hop on a boat and explore the seas surrounding the island in search of whales!

Fairmont Empress Hotel, Victoria, BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

It’s time to say goodbye to Tofino and hello to British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria. Victoria is a gorgeous city, aptly named the Garden City, and is an excellent stop for a Vancouver Island road trip.

The trek to Victoria from Tofino takes just over four hours since you have to drive all the way back to Nanaimo before heading south. There are many places you could stop along the way, but I suggest straight-shooting it all the way there to give yourself as much time in Victoria as you can.

Orca Whale Watching in Victoria | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Once you arrive in Victoria, head straight to Fisherman’s Wharf for some whale watching. If you get to Fisherman’s wharf early, wander around and check out the colourful floating houses and grab a bite to eat at Barb’s Fish and Chips.

If you don’t go whale watching on your Vancouver Island road trip, then why did you come here?! (Joking, obviously.) But, seriously, why pass up an opportunity to see whales in the wild in one of the most populous whale areas?

There’s nothing like the thrill of the silence, with the boat engines cut, waiting for a glimpse of the majestic Orca. Then suddenly, they’re there, in front of you! Seeing these beautiful marine mammals in the wild is an incredible experience.

There are many whale watching tour operators in Victoria and Vancouver. Still, I chose Eagle Wing Whale and Wildlife Watching Tours due to their commitment to the environment and strict whale interaction procedures.

Whale watching tours are fantastic. Not only will you likely see orcas, since there are quite a few in the area, but you may also get a chance to see blue whales, humpbacks whales, seals, sea lions, and more.

RELATED: Whale watching in Victoria, BC

Like many cities, Victoria has so many options for hotels, B&Bs, hostels and more. On my trip, I decided to stay as cheaply as possible, taking a bed at Hostel International in the city, especially since I splurged for the yurt at Wya Point. Victoria’s Hostel International was quite lovely, with decent facilities for a hostel, but I wasn’t there much other than to sleep.

Like I said there are so many options, just look at this map:

Day five of a Vancouver Island road trip is your final day, explore Victoria, grabbing a bite to eat at one of its excellent restaurants, and stop at the Butchart Gardens before heading back to the mainland.

Breakwater lighthouse Victoria | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

It’s your last day on the Vancouver Island road trip, so make sure to check out some awesome spots in Victoria. I find that Victoria is more charming than the metropolis of Vancouver. Not only does Victoria have more beautiful architecture, but it still has this small city vibe to it, which the giant city of Vancouver does not.

One of the places you have to see in Victoria includes the Fairmont Empress, one of the oldest hotels in Canada. Even if you don’t stay here, be sure to peek inside or make a reservation for its world-renowned high tea.

(If you don’t want to pay that much for high tea, check out Venus Sophia Tea Room. They have amazing scones and an impressive selection of tea at a much more reasonable price.)

BC Legislature, Victoria BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

You also won’t want to miss taking in the BC Legislature building, which in my opinion, is the most beautiful in Canada. The sprawling gardens are dotted with statues and totem poles. See if you can find the statue of Queen Victoria, for whom the city was named.

Chinatown needs to be on your list too. Chinese immigrants have a long, rich and, many times, heartbreaking relationship to the growth of Victoria, BC. The district stands out with its red and gold colours and unique architecture. Take a look at the several shops and restaurants, but make sure to stop by the Gate of Harmonious Interest, the infamous Fan Tan Alley, and the lesser-known Dragon Alley.

Fan Tan Alley in Victoria BC | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Lastly, the trendy fashion district of Market Square and open pedestrian shopping district of Bastion Square are two stops you have to make before leaving Victoria.

Outside the downtown, try to make at least one stop at either the breakwater (a one-kilometre trail jutting out into the bay), Beacon Hill Park (a 200-acre park home to the fourth-tallest totem pole), Craigdarroch Castle (a Scottish-style castle known for its intricate stained glass windows), or Emily Carr House (once home to one of Canada’s most famous painters).

RELATED: Zoom through Victoria, BC: The regal capital city

Your last stop on a Vancouver Island Road Trip should be the Butchart Gardens. The Gardens, located about 30 minutes north of Victoria, is a National Historic Site of Canada. For over 100 years, these gardens are a treat to the eyes with a wide range of flowers and plants.

BC Ferries back to mainland | Vancouver Island road trip 5 day itinerary | My Wandering Voyage

Swartz Bay, where you’ll catch a ferry to the mainland, is only 30 minutes from Victoria. So, depending on your departure, you might have time to check out a few more places along the way.

There’s Cattle Point Dark Sky Urban Star Park, or the scenic views of Mount Douglas, the waterfront forest of Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, forested hiking at ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Provincial Park, or check out the small port city of Sydney, BC.

The ultimate guide to travelling in Canada from coast to coast to coast. This Canada travel guide has everything from where to go, what to pack, what you NEED to know and so much more. Plus, sample itineraries for travel in Canada! #Canada #Travel #TravelGuide | My Wandering Voyage Travel Blog

There really is so much to see on the island. This five day Vancouver Island road trip only stops at the highlights, so if you live close or want to explore more, please do, there’s nowhere else in the world quite like Vancouver Island.

Olivia Rutt

Olivia Rutt is the travel writer and photographer behind My Wandering Voyage, a travel website helping working millennials find time to travel. She shares insight in trip planning, travel inspiration and photography tips. Olivia hails from southern Ontario, Canada where she works in the media industry between travels. Follow Olivia on Instagram where she shares her travel photos, or catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter.

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5 Days Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

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Vancouver Island seems like the perfect weekend getaway from Vancouver . The only reason it isn’t is because you need much more than a weekend to explore it. This 5 days Vancouver Island road trip itinerary just gives you a taste of what this large, beautiful island has to offer.

“A 5 day Vancouver Island itinerary?! That’s enough for close to nothing” – I hear my local friends protest, and I partly agree. Because Vancouver Island is home to so many natural treasures, and so many of them are in isolated regions that require time and effort to reach. Surely, Vancouver Island would keep nature lovers busy for months (and years). But still, 5 days on Vancouver Island is much more than nothing, especially if you plan your route carefully. And if you drive, because having a car to explore the island is essential.

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And I decided to keep this Vancouver Island itinerary 5 days long, because most people who start their Canadian road trip from Vancouver have only a few days for Vancouver Island – if any. It’s a great first-timers’ itinerary that includes the highlights.

Could you guess how long it takes to drive around Vancouver Island, anyway? It takes about 7 hours to drive Vancouver Island from tip to toe, and then you don’t even visit anything on the western coast. It’s a huge island, with several isolated attractions. The goal of this itinerary is not to see everything, but to enjoy some of the most wonderful Vancouver Island attractions.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

5 days Vancouver Island road trip summary

Day 1: victoria, day 2: victoria to port renfrew, sooke potholes provincial park, mystic beach, sombrio beach, day 3: port renfrew to nanaimo, lake cowichan, day 4: nanaimo to tofino, little qualicum falls provincial park, cathedral grove, pacific rim nature reserve, day 5: tofino to ucluelet.

Tofino (Clayoquot Sound & Tonquin Trail)

Wild Pacific Trail

Want help planning your BC road trip?

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Which is the best time to visit Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island has mild winters – by Canadian standards -, and it’s a year-round destination for outdoor lovers. However, the weather between November and April can be extremely rainy and quite chilly. Snow is rare on the coast, but torrential rains are common.

Summer is a busy time, but you’ll enjoy the warmest weather and long days, perfect for camping and spending lots of time outdoors. You need to think about the activities you’d like to do to be able to decide which is the best time for your Vancouver Island road trip.

This Vancouver Island 5-day itinerary has lots of outdoor activities and is optimized for the summer (between May and September).

How to get to Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island has no bridges, so you either take the plane, the seaplane from Vancouver (quick, expensive and very scenic!) or the ferry to get there. Then you road trip Vancouver Island, because that’s the way. Driving around is surely the most flexible, most convenient and quite often the only way to get to places.

Most people take the ferry, and that’s what we suggest, as well, if you’re taking your car. There’s a ferry line from Tsawwassen (Metro Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria), one from Tsawwassen to Nanaimo and one from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo. The ferry is operated by BC Ferries – see sailing schedules and prices here .

Juan de Fuca Coast, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

5 days Vancouver Island itinerary

So let’s see what to do on Vancouver Island if you have 5 days:

Victoria is the provincial capital , and – being on the southern tip of Vancouver Island – it’s a great place to kick off your road trip. Named after British Queen Victoria, it certainly has more “old England charm” than any other cities in British Columbia . Its historical center is very walkable, and the scenery is breathtaking.

It’s one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island, and thanks to its easily accessible location and pleasant number of sights (there are sights, but not too many), it fits into even the shorter Vancouver Island road trips.

Best things to do in Victoria:

Go whale-watching. Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale-watching, and tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbour several times every day . Whale migration is between March and October, that’s when you can see humpback whales, minke whales and grey whales. You have a chance to see orcas, dolphins, and seals any time of the year. I recommend either starting or finishing your day in Victoria with a whale-watching tour. ( Sunset whale-watching trips can be stunning!)
Visit the Butchart Gardens , Canada’s most fabulous garden, with over 900 different plants, grouped in thematic gardens and changing with the seasons.
Take a walk in the Inner Harbour , one of the most scenic harbours in the world.
Explore the Fisherman’s Wharf , a group of floating homes and restaurants connected by wooden boardwalks.

Find the best architecture by strolling the streets between Chatham Street, Humboldt Street, Douglas Street and the Fisherman’s Wharf.
Have an afternoon tea at one of the oldest hotels in Canada, the Fairmont Empress Hotel – you bet they do it in style.
Visit the majestic Parliament Buildings , and walk around the grounds: the Front Fountain, Knowledge Totem Pole, the giant Sequoia Tree and the Premier’s Rose Garden.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about BC’s natural and human history in an exciting way.

Best accommodations in Victoria:

Luxury: Fairmont Empress Hotel (top location)
Mid-range: Beaconsfield Bed and Breakfast
Budget: James Bay Inn Hotel, Suites & Cottage

Continue your Vancouver Island trip towards Port Renfrew. This is a typical wonderful road trip day, including ~110 km of driving and some of the most famous natural beauties of the southwest coast of Vancouver Island . Wild, long, windswept sandy beaches, pretty beach waterfalls and ancient temperate rainforests make this coastline unforgettable.

Sooke Potholes Regional Park, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is famous for “the potholes”: the deep rock pools which were naturally carved into the bedrock of the Sooke River by glacial activities. It’s one of the most unique places to visit on Vancouver Island without getting too far from Victoria.

It’s a popular swimming spot in the summer. But the water doesn’t get warm, so don’t expect to soak in a hot tub, it’s not that kind of experience. Jump in for a refreshment on a hot summer day.

Walk the trails above the canyon walls, and visit the lookouts to get a view of the potholes from above. Don’t miss Todd Creek waterfall as you’re on your way to the parking lot, it’s right by the road.

Mystic Beach waterfall, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

As you drive along the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, there are lots of cool beaches to stop on the way, and most of them require short hikes through the lush coastal rainforest.

These trails might be short, but they’re steep, rugged and often very muddy. They’re definitely worth it though, because you combine exploring pretty forest trails with visiting even prettier beaches.

Mystic Beach, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Mystic Beach is one of the best beach stops, and it features a waterfall, as well. Skinny Mystic Beach waterfall tumbles off a 10 meters high cliff into the ocean or onto the sandy beach, depending on the tide.

To access the beach, a 2 km hike is required which includes amazing rainforest, a suspension bridge, some steeper terrain and plenty of mud. Allow at least 2 hours to hike to the beach and back, spend some time enjoying the scenery or having a picnic on Mystic Beach.

Sombrio Beach, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, BC, Canada

Another unique beach stop is Sombrio Beach. It’s lesser-known, but we loved it even more than Mystic Beach, and I’d definitely recommend including it in any Vancouver Island road trip from Victoria to Port Renfrew.

It’s an untouched beach with a waterfall hidden in a narrow canyon behind the beach. Finding it feels like being in a Jurassic Park adventure! We’re written a detailed guide to Sombrio Beach and its hidden waterfall here.

Arriving in Port Renfrew

You’ll arrive in Port Renfrew at the end of the day. If you have the time, visit Botanical Beach , it’s only a few minutes drive from town. It has the most unique tide pools you find on Vancouver Island , and they’re best to be seen at low tide.

Best accommodations in Port Renfrew:

Luxury: Port Renfrew Oceanfront Retreat (luxurious holiday home, with waterfront location)
Mid-range: Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages (waterfront location)
Budget: West Coast Trail Lodge

Another scenic drive awaits today: 135 km from Port Renfrew to Nanaimo, with tranquil lakes and endless pine forests on the way, ending on the coast on the eastern side of the island .

Ammonite Falls, Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Fairy Lake is just outside of Port Renfrew, and what makes it stand out is the “Bonsai Tree” . It’s actually a tiny Douglas Fir growing from a partially submerged stump of a much larger Douglas Fir near the edge of Fairy Lake.

You bet it’s an Insta-star, and you won’t be able to resist taking pictures of it either. It’s a unique sight and a quick stop at the beginning of this day.

Lake Cowichan is an ideal stop halfway on your drive. This large lake is great for swimming or paddling in summer. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll be delighted to find yourself in Vancouver Island’s wine region, the Cowichan Valley , with 14 different wineries.

Pipers Lagoon Park, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Nanaimo is yet another coastal city with scenic parks, local craft beer and a lively harbourfront . Take a walk in Neck Point Park or Pipers Lagoon Park to enjoy views over the Pacific, or hike to Ammonite Falls (6 km loop) just outside of Nanaimo.

Best accommodations in Nanaimo:

Luxury: Coast Bastion Hotel
Mid-range: Long Lake Waterfront Bed and Breakfast (lakeside location)
Budget: Days Inn by Windham Nanaimo

The 207 km drive from Nanaimo to Tofino offers so many wonderful stops that you could spend several days on this route only. (This is our favorite drive on Vancouver Island!)

I highlighted the most easily accessible and best attractions on the way from Nanaimo to Tofino for this day:

Little Qualicum Falls, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Little Qualicum Falls is actually one of the most powerful waterfalls we’ve seen on Vancouver Island , and it’s just off of Highway 4.

The main loop takes you to both the upper and lower falls. It’s a 1.5 km loop, starting from the Little Qualicum Falls day use area, and it’s easy and well-maintained, with security fences around the upper falls viewing area. Then hike down to the second bridge and the lower falls, enjoying dramatic gorge views on the way.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park happens to be one of our favorite places to camp on Vancouver Island .

Cathedral Grove, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Another beautiful roadside attraction is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. It’s among the best places to see spectacular old-growth forest on Vancouver Island.

It has two easy loops on the two sides of Highway 4 that allows you to enjoy the sight of 800-year-old Douglas firs and giant fallen trees. See a detailed trail map here.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is south of Tofino, and it’s a popular stop for a good reason! Rainforest Trail will be your first stop in the park, and it impresses with some of the oldest forests in Canada – ancient Douglas fir, Sitka spruce and Western red cedar trees.

Long Beach, Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

The trail is on raised boardwalks, and there’s two loops on the two sides of the road (loop A and loop B). Each of them is a little over one kilometer in length, and they’re easy enough. But don’t expect a flat walk, there are stairs and some elevation change involved.

After the Rainforest Trail, Long Beach is only a few minutes drive. It lives up to its name: this 16 km long sandy beach never gets crowded. Take a walk on Long Beach, and climb to one of the rocks for an elevated view. It’s a popular surfing beach, too, but mostly for experienced surfers.

Cox Bay Lookout, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

For a beginner surfing lesson, go to Cox Bay. Then climb up to the Cox Bay Lookout for the best coastal panorama on Vancouver Island.

The trail to the lookout is short (2.6 km return), but steep, and it requires some scrambling and using your navigation skills. Lots of mud is involved in the adventure, as well, no matter when you visit. But the reward is jaw-dropping!

The trail to Cox Bay Lookout starts from the southern end of Cox Bay – here’s our detailed hiking guide to it . The best time to do it is around sunset.

Best accommodations in Tofino:

Luxury: Long Beach Lodge Resort (oceanfront location)
Mid-range: Middle Beach Lodge (oceanfront location)
Budget: HI Tofino – Whalers on the Point Guesthouse

Your last day will be about exploring Tofino, then hiking the Wild Pacific Trail (or a part of it) in Ucluelet. Finally, it’s time to head back to Vancouver – either by seaplane or by driving to Nanaimo and taking the ferry.

Tofino: Clayoquot Sound & Tonquin Trail

Tonquin Trail, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Start your last day with breakfast at Rhino Coffee House. They roast and sell their own beans, and you also find homemade donuts and sandwiches there. Then stroll the pretty Tofino waterfront, and rent a kayak to explore Clayoquot Sound.

Clayoquot Sound is a maze of waterways and islands, and you can paddle to Meares Island and walk along the boardwalk of the Big Tree Trail there. The water here is sheltered, and it’s the calmest in the morning.

After kayaking, it’s time to hike. The Tonquin Trail is a scenic coastal hike with several beach access points, and it’s one of the best things to do in Tofino . It starts at the end of Arnet Road in Tofino, and runs through the coastal rainforest and along the fabulous shoreline, and gives access to Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach.

The small coastal town of Ucluelet is 30 minutes drive from Tofino, on the opposite side of the peninsula. Its most famous attraction is the Wild Pacific Trail that runs along a rugged coastline and offers rocky viewpoints.

The most scenic section of the Wild Pacific Trail is the 2.6 km Lighthouse Loop. If you’re short on time, include only this section. Otherwise, another portion of the trail goes between Brown’s Beach and Rocky Bluff. It’s 8 km there and back, with coastal views and dense coastal rainforest.

Find a detailed trail map of the Wild Pacific Trail here .

Don’t get lost on the backroads of Vancouver Island!

As we learned from our own mistakes, relying on Google Maps and other online maps in British Columbia is risky, especially when driving on the back roads. They don’t have accurate information. What to use then not to get lost?

The Backroad Mapbooks has a great outdoor recreation guidebook series about Canada, with waterproof maps, GPS maps and a smartphone app. Their Vancouver Island edition comes very handy for traveling extensively on this large island.

Get the Vancouver Island BC Backroad Mapbook now.

More things to do on Vancouver Island

Lower Myra Falls, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

This 5 days on Vancouver Island itinerary includes the most easily accessible highlights for first-time visitors. Explore Vancouver Island even more deeply if you have the time.

We’ve written quite a few articles about different towns and regions, read them here:

12 Amazing Things To Do In Tofino
12 Best Things To Do In Sooke
17 Best Waterfalls On Vancouver Island
Visit The Hole In The Wall, Port Alberni
Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park, A Delightful Surprise Near Victoria

Do you find planning your British Columbia road trip a bit overwhelming?

What if I told you that someone has ALL the planning done: get our compact, easy BC Road Trip Guide! Read it, then go and enjoy.

The most popular Vancouver Island tours

Some optional tours to add to a 5 day itinerary on Vancouver Island:

Visit The Hole In The Wall, Port Alberni

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of In Love With BC, a blog about British Columbia travel, hiking and outdoor adventures. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, and she’s passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way. North America is one of her favorite destinations, and she spent a year living in Vancouver and traveling all over BC with her family.

Which are the best lesser-known hikes in North America?

Get our free ebook and join the community to get more BC travel inspiration and tips:

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25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver, Canada

01/04/2023 By Traveling Canucks 7 Comments Categories: Adventures Beautiful BC Series British Columbia Canada Family Travel Tips Sightseeing Travel Stories Travel Tips Trip Ideas Vancouver

Day trips from Vancouver British Columbia Canada, buildings in Yaletown and downtown Vancouver at False Creek with little aquabus

The best day trips from Vancouver, British Columbia

If you’ve visited Vancouver, chances are you’ve walked around Stanley Park’s iconic seawall , visited Granville Island , snapped a photo of the old Steam Clock in Gastown , shopped on Robson Street and raised a glass in Granville’s entertainment district . In this post, we want to get outside the city and share our favourite day trips from Vancouver.

While there are countless things to see and do in Vancouver , there’s even more adventure waiting for you just outside the city limits (there’s good reason why Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities).

As residents of North Vancouver, we’ve spent the past few years exploring our big, beautiful backyard. It’s been fun doing the research for this long overdue blog post about the best day trips from Vancouver .

25 Awesome Day trips from Vancouver

Table of Contents

Today, we’d like to share OUR favourite day trips from Vancouver.

It should be noted that you can easily convert some of these day trips into an overnight trip or weekend getaway. Read this post for the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors.

We highly recommend going slow and spending quality time at each spot, but we’d completely understand if you wanted to see it all.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Day trips from Vancouver, British Columbia, photo of whistler peak to peak gondola in the summer with blackcomb mountain in the backdrop, red gondola

1. Whistler

We’re going to kick things off with our top day trips from Vancouver, rather than saving the best for last. Located 125 km north of Vancouver (about 1.5 hour drive), Whistler is a four season resort town with more than 8,000 acres of terrain spread across multiple mountain peaks.

Simply put – if you like adventure, Whistler is built for you!

Whistler gained world fame in 2010 when it co-hosted the Winter Olympics with the city of Vancouver. Whistler consistently ranks as the top ski resort in North America. In 2008, it introduced the world record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola, completing the longest continuous lift system in the world.

Over the past decade, Whistler has evolved to become a top summer destination in Canada .

Whistler boasts over 50 km of high alpine hiking trails, multiple golf courses, zip-line courses , ATV off road tours, Jeep 4×4 tours to view glaciers , bungee jumping, helicopter tours , bear viewing tours, white water rafting, and several fresh water lakes for SUP, kayaking and canoeing .

The Whistler Bike Park has quickly become one of the best mountain bike parks in North America. Whistler hosts several festivals and events each year, including the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April and Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival in August.

Some of the fun things to do in Whistler:

Take the Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola – learn more here .
Try the Whistler Sasquatch Zipline , the longest zipline in Canada and the US.
Rejuvenate and relax at the traditional Scandinave Spa
Golf at 3 different courses, including the impressive Nicklaus North Golf Course
SUP or kayaking at Lost Lake, Alta Lake or Green Lake
Downhill mountain biking and/or cross-country trail riding
Zip-line courses, ATV off road tours, white water rafting or bungee jumping
Whistler Jeep Tour to see glaciers and snow-capped mountain vistas
Helicopter excursion or float plane sightseeing tour
Bear viewing tour and/or nature safari
Hike to stunning alpine lakes at Garibali Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Chekamus Lake, Elfin Lakes and/or Wedgemount Lake
Visit the unique Whistler train wreck
Search for Whistler hotel deals here

Related – 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer

mountains and suspension bridge at the top of Whistler peak in summer months with canada flag and whistler village in the distance

2. Victoria

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island , Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest . People often mistake Vancouver as the capital city of British Columbia, when in fact it’s Victoria.

Victoria is approximately 100 kilometres from both Vancouver and Seattle, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway for tourists (and mainland residents). We try to visit Victoria at least once every year.

If you’re short on time, we recommend you check out this Guided Food and History Tour of Victoria.

While you technically can visit Victoria in one day, we recommend you give it at least one night. Ideally, two or three nights, if you can.

Most people will catch the ferry that departs from Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal , but you can take a bus from downtown Vancouver that will drop you off in downtown Victoria (ticket includes the ferry crossing).

If you’re a first time visitor to Vancouver and you don’t have a vehicle, we’d recommend the bus option over renting a car and driving on the ferry.

You can also take a float plane from downtown Vancouver, which is a lot of fun. If you’ve only got one day to spend in Victoria, the float plane is the fastest and most convenient option. The ferry option will take you at least 4 hours in each direction.

If you decide to stay overnight, here’s where to stay in Victoria:

We have stayed at the Magnolia Hotel , Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Fairmont Empress and would recommend them all. They are centrally located and family friendly. Search for more Victoria hotels here .

Related – 20 Things to do in Victoria, British Columbia

Fairmont Empress hotel view from Victoria Inner Harbour. Best day trip from Vancouver for tourists

3. Visit Bowen Island

Located approximately 25 km’s northwest of Vancouver, Bowen Island is a laid-back island that feels miles away from the hustle of the big city. The island is only 6 km wide and 12 km long, so you can easily explore the island in one day. Popular activities are kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and boating.

The Snug Cove ferry terminal has a marina with small shops and restaurants. The most popular beaches on Bowen Island are Tunstall Bay, Bowen Bay and Sandy Beach.

An easy scenic hike is the Killarney Lake trail . It takes about 2 hours round trip, covering 9 km’s. A more challenging hike is the summit of Mount Gardner . It takes about 7 hours, covering 17 km’s round trip.

To get to Bowen Island, you take a 20 minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Or you can take a 45 minute water taxi from Granville Island. Check with BC Ferries for sailing times.

If you do wish to spend the night, the best accommodations on Bowen Island are vacation properties. Search for vacation properties to stay here .

Related – 25 Things to do in Vancouver

Upper deck of BC Ferries with North Shore mountains and Howe sound, best day trips from Vancouver, British Columbia for tourists

4. Explore the Sunshine Coast

Although the Sunshine Coast may not always live up to its name (it’s located in the Pacific Northwest, after all), it’s a beautiful coastal area that stretches from Langdale to Lund, with many quaint communities in between.

If you’ve got the time, this is a great place for a coastal road trip.

Part of the fun is the actual journey to the Sunshine Coast. Most visitors will access the Sunshine Coast by ferry from Horseshoe Bay. However, you can also take a float plane, depending on the time of year. The ferry ride and marinas are quintessentially West Coast.

If you only have one day, you’ll want to focus your time on Langdale and Hopkins Landing .

Hopkins Landing is a short walk from the Langdale ferry terminal and there’s a beach that overlooks the North Shore mountains. It’s a great spot for kayaking, swimming and beachcombing.

If you are traveling in a small group, you might consider booking a guided tour to explore a few of the hidden gems on the Sunshine Coast.

Day trips from Vancouver, British Columbia

5. Rent a boat and cruise around Howe Sound

Howe Sound is network of fjords situated between West Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast, about 30 minutes northwest of Vancouver. This is one of the most beautiful areas in the Lower Mainland.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience British Columbia’s natural beauty, driving a small speed boat around Howe Sound should be on your list.

One of the things we like to do in Vancouver during the summer is to visit the lazy seals that hang out on Pam Rocks , a cluster of tiny islands located in the center of Howe Sound. The only way to see these rock islands is by boat.

The best place to rent boats is Sewell’s Marina , located in Horseshoe Bay.

Renting a boat is relatively inexpensive and you don’t need to have a special boat license. A standard driver’s license is sufficient. For two hours of personal boat time (usually enough to get to the seal colony and back) it’s about $180 (check rates here ). The boat can take between 4 to 6 people.

To visit marine parks and secluded coves that can only be reached by water, it’s wise to do the 4-hour rate and head to Gambier or Anvil Island.

Related – Top Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

6. horseshoe bay.

Another great day trip from Vancouver is the village of Horseshoe Bay , the gateway to Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast , located on the western tip of West Vancouver .

Horseshoe Bay is also the location of the third busiest BC Ferries terminal . If you plan to visit Vancouver Island, Bowen Island or the Sunshine Coast, you will board your ferry at Horseshoe Bay.

Even if you don’t plan to take a ferry, Horseshoe Bay is a fun place to have lunch and spend the afternoon. There are a few restaurants in the village, including the legendary Trolls Restaurant (get the Oyster Burger or Clam Chowder), and it has a rocky beach with a playground that faces the marina.

After you visit Horseshoe Bay, check out nearby Whytecliff Park , one of the first Marine Protected Areas in Canada and a popular cold water scuba diving spot.

If you have time on your drive back to Vancouver, visit nearby Lighthouse Park , located in a residential area in West Vancouver. It is a popular attraction and a National Historic Site of Canada .

Related – 25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver

7. Squamish

Located about halfway between Vancouver and Whistler, the town of Squamish is one of the best day trips from Vancouver. It continues to build its brand as an outdoor adventure destination. It’s an easy drive from Vancouver and the scenery is everything you’d expect from a town in the mountains.

We could dedicate an entire blog post about things to do in Squamish. You can make several day trips from Vancouver to Squamish and still only scratch the surface.

For the thrill-seeker, rock climbing at the Stawamus Chief is world class and the Via Ferrata from the Summit Lodge is fun change of pace.

If you prefer to get in the water, the Squamish Spit hosts some of the best windsurfing and kite surfing in the Pacific Northwest. There area also dozens of hiking trails and parks, including the family-friendly Four Lakes Trail and the full day Elfin Lakes hike .

Other activities include a visit the West Coast Rail Heritage Park (home to the annual Polar Express experience), eagle viewing in Brackendale , golfing at Furry Creek , paddling and fishing on Alice Lake , shopping at the Squamish Farmers’ Market and brewery tours at Howe Sound Brewing .

Related – The best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors

Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, day trip from Vancouver

8. Sea to Sky Gondola

Another favourite day trips from Vancouver is the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. It’s a 10-minute gondola ride that transports guests up the side of the mountain to a lodge that overlooks Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains.

There are plenty of things to do once you reach the summit. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge is a big hit and will surely give you butterflies in your stomach as it sways from side to side.

There are multiple viewing platforms and several hiking trails for all skill levels. The Summit Lodge has an amazing patio, so if you’re not up for adventure, you can enjoy a relaxing lunch with outstanding mountain views.

If you plan to visit on a weekend in the summer, make sure you arrive early because it’s a popular attraction and the Sea to Sky Gondola parking is limited. And if you already know your date of arrival, we suggest you reserve your spot here .

There’s overflow parking available across the highway from Shannon Falls Provincial Park (check out the waterfalls if you visit the gondola) . We’re told that there’s a free shuttle service on the weekends.

Or, you can walk 15 minutes to the Sea to Sky Gondola via the connector hiking trail.

Related – Winter fun at Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish

ski pilot bridge, sea to sky gondola, Squamish British Columbia

9. Britannia Mine Museum

The Britannia Mine Museum , formerly British Columbia Museum of Mining, is located in Britannia Beach . It’s about 55 km north of Vancouver on the Sea-to-Sky Highway on Howe Sound.

The Museum site itself is an exhibit – from historical machinery to heritage buildings and the massive yellow dump truck that lives within the facility.

We recommend you take the underground tour on the old mine train.

The 45 minute guided tour gives you an understanding of what life was like as a miner back in the early 1900s. It’s fascinating to learn how the mines were operated back then. I’m not sure I could do what they did.

You only need about 2 hours to explore the museum and take the mine train tour, so this is a good activity to bundle with a visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola or Porteau Cove Provincial Park . Book your admission tickets easily here .

If you like this attraction, visit the train museum in Squamish .

Rail track inside the old mine tunnel at Britannia Mine Museum.

10. Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Porteau Cove is a small provincial park in British Columbia (about 50 hectares in size), situated on the most southerly fjord in North America. The park stretches between the shoreline of Howe Sound and the Sea to Sky Highway , about 20 minutes south of Squamish .

Aside from its rocky beaches and breathtaking mountain vistas, Porteau Cove’s star attraction the old ferry terminal that’s been converted into a pedestrian pier.

It’s also a popular cold water scuba dive spot because it has a series of artificial reefs and two sunken ships.

Related – An oceanfront cabin retreat at Porteau Cove

beach at Porteau Cove Provincial Park in British Columbia Canada

Above – the beach at Porteau Cove Provincial Park .

11. Hiking at Garibaldi Provincial Park

Garibaldi Provincial Park is a massive wilderness park located between Squamish and Whistler, about a 1.5 hour drive from Vancouver. This beautiful park is best visited during the summer months, when you can hike the popular Garibaldi Lake trail .

The park covers an area of over 1,950 square kilometers (753 sq mi) and is home to some of British Columbia’s most impressive hiking trails. There are five entrance points located along the Sea to Sky Highway. There are also several camp sites that are first come, first served.

The most popular trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park are Diamond Head, Black Tusk , Garibaldi Lake, Wedgemount Lake , Cheakamus Lake and Singing Pass.

If you’re looking for a full day leg burner, the Garibaldi Lake hike will do the trick (pictured above).

Related – The Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

12. Whale watching in the Southern Gulf Islands

The Southern Gulf Islands , an archipelago of small islands located between Vancouver Island the Lower Mainland, is one of the best places to witness orca whales in their natural habitat. This is one of the best day trips from Vancouver for first time visitors, in our opinion.

The best time to go whale watching is during the salmon migration in the summer months between May to October. Whales, sea birds and other marine animals are attracted to the area to feed, resulting in very strong success rate on many whale watching tours.

There are plenty of whale watching operators based out of Vancouver that offer a variety of options, from 2 hour tours to full day excursions.

Related – Surrounded by Killer Whales in the Salish Sea

Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver, BC. Top tourist attraction in Vancouver

13. Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk

Located in the District of North Vancouver , near the base of Grouse Mountain , the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a fun and easy day trip from Vancouver.

Over the years, the park has added several features to compliment its famous bouncing suspension bridge, including the recently added Cliffwalk experience.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a great family friendly attraction for both tourists and locals. Aside from the bridge and Cliffwalk , the park also offers the Treetops adventure , a series of seven suspension bridges attached to eight 30 ton, 250 year old Douglas-firs, and several boardwalks with viewpoints that overlook the canyon.

Skip the lines and book your tickets easily here .

If you have time, try to squeeze in a visit to nearby Cleveland Dam .

Related – Cliffwalk at the Capilano Suspension Bridge

14. Play in the North Shore Mountains

No trip to Vancouver is complete without a visit to the North Shore Mountains . The most popular and accessible mountains are Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour and Cypress Mountain. All three mountains have ski operations in the winter, extensive hiking trails in the summer and facilities with restaurants.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain , the self-described Peak of Vancouver, is the most popular mountain for tourists. To reach the peak, guests take the Skyride tram to the top of the mountain. This is always fun for first timers, regardless of the season.

For the more adventurous type, you can hike to the summit via the Grouse Grind , also known as Mother Nature’s Staircase (it’s a 2.9 km trail that climbs 2,800 feet). Novice hikers should plan for roughly two hours to ascend the trail. The record is 25 minutes.

There are restaurants and cafes at the summit of Grouse Mountain, so if you’re not up for a strenuous afternoon you can simply enjoy the views with a cold beverage in hand.

During the summer you can witness the Grizzly Bear habitat.

Reserve your Grouse Mountain ticket here .

Cypress Mountain / Cypress Provincial Park

Cypress Mountain is located in the southern section of Cypress Provincial Park. With over 240 hectares of skiable terrain and 53 runs, Cypress Mountain has the largest ski area out of the three mountains.

Cypress hosted the Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding events during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics .

Mount Seymour Provincial Park

Mount Seymour is often overlooked by first time visitors to Vancouver because it’s the furthest away from the downtown. It’s also the smallest of the three local mountains. It’s more of a family mountain and has some of the best snowshoeing and nordic skiing trails on the North Shore.

15. Hiking or Kayaking in Deep Cove

An easy day trips from Vancouver is a visit to Deep Cove . It’s a quaint community in the easternmost North Vancouver, located at the entrance of Indian Arm It’s about a 25 minute drive from Vancouver. There’s a little village with a restaurants, shops and the infamous Honey’s Doughnuts (Vancouverites love these donuts!).

Deep Cove is known for its marina and kayaking.

You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and surfskis from Deep Cove Kayak . This shop gets busy in the summer months, especially on the weekends. You’re best to make a reservation for equipment.

Parking in Deep Cove can be challenging, so it’s wise to arrive early (before 9:00 AM).

Another popular activity in Deep Cove is hiking to Quarry Rock.

Quarry Rock is an easy hike that takes about 1.5 hours round trip, so it’s an ideal day trip from Vancouver. The views from the top of Quarry Rock are fantastic.

If you’ve got the stamina and the time, you could hike the trail in the morning, have lunch at Arms Reach Bistro in the village, then go for a paddle in the afternoon.

Now that’s a perfect day in the Pacific Northwest!

16. Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf

Richmond’s Steveston Village is a charming fishing village located 20 minutes south of Vancouver. It sits at the mouth of the Fraser River and was once the largest fishing port and cannery centre on the West Coast.

Steveson is also the departure point for many whale watching tours that explore the nearby Gulf Islands and the San Juan islands (in Washington State).

On a sunny afternoon we like to visit the village and indulge in fish and chips and cold beer. Then we like to walk along the pier to burn off lunch.

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery (also known as the Monster Cannery) is now a National Historic Site . It offers a glimpse into the history of the multicultural workers who kept the salmon canning lines moving in the early 1900’s.

Steveston is still an active fishing harbour, so you can walk along the docks and purchase fresh seafood directly from the fishing boats. This is where you’ll find the best prices on fresh seafood!

17. River Rock Casino, Richmond

The River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond is the largest casino in British Columbia, generating an average of 10,000 visitors per day.

With the addition of the Canada Line SkyTrain, the rapid transit that connects Richmond to Vancouver, there’s now a train station located directly across from the casino, making it easily accessible from virtually anywhere in the city.

The River Rock has a large theater that hosts a variety of entertainment acts throughout the year. If you like Vegas style entertainment you’ll enjoy an evening at the River Rock.

Here’s the upcoming schedule at the River Rock Theatre .

In the summer, the Richmond Night Market runs on weekends and close to the River Rock Casino. The Night Market features live performances, carnival games and over 200 retail stalls with over 500 food choices from around the world.

18. Langley Wine Tours

Did you know the Lower Mainland is home to several award winning wineries? You don’t have to drive all the way to the Okanagan Valley to enjoy wine tasting in British Columbia.

Chaberton Estate Winery is the oldest and largest winery in the Fraser Valley and the 5th largest in British Columbia. Other popular wineries are Township 7 Winery , Neck of the Woods Winery , Backyard Vineyards and the Fort Wine Co.

Langley is about a 45 minute drive from Vancouver, depending on traffic (afternoon rush hour can add 1-2 hours). If you plan to sample a lot of wine and don’t want to drive, you can organize wine tasting tours that depart from Vancouver and visit 3-4 wineries. It’s a fun day trip in the summer months.

Related – Wine tasting and Glamping in Kelowna

19. Cultus Lake Waterpark & Adventure Park

Located two hours east of Vancouver, just south of Chilliwack, sits Cultus Lake Provincial Park and its many family friendly attractions. The lake, beaches and surrounding forests are fantastic, but what lures families to this area is the Cultus Lake Waterpark and Cultus Lake Adventure Park .

The Adventure Park is British Columbia’s newest family theme park and home to the Fraser Valley’s only roller coaster. It’s also home to Giggle Ridge Adventure Golf (18 holes of mini-golf), Bumper Boats, Prospector’s Peak and the Runaway Mine Train.

Cultus Lake Waterpark has all kinds of water slides, wading pools and themed attractions. You could spend the entire day at this park alone.

Related – A look back on an epic summer in British Columbia

20. Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is located 150 km east of Vancouver and 64 km southeast of Chilliwack (40km in from the Vedder Crossing).

It’s a beautiful park surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and dense forest. There are several hiking trails, beaches, boat launches, parks and recreational facilities. This is a great spot to go boating, kayaking and canoeing.

To get to Chilliwack Lake, take Exit 104 from Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy) and follow the signs for Cultus Lake until you reach Cultus Lake Road. Instead of turning, follow Vedder Road across the bridge and turn right onto Chilliwack Lake Road.

Follow this road for 40 km to the lake and campground – visit BC Parks website for more info.

Related – Why We Love Living in British Columbia

21. Sturgeon Fishing on the Fraser River (Chilliwack)

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you should try sturgeon fishing on the North Fraser River . Sturgeons date back to the Triassic period, some 245 to 208 million years ago.

So, basically, these are underwater dinosaurs! Okay, not really . But some of these fish are over 150 years old and grow as long as 10 feet.

You can take a guided tour that departs from Chilliwack and goes up the North Fraser River. The river is loaded with sturgeon and salmon. While you’re on the boat waiting for a fish to bite, it’s common to see sturgeon breach along the river. On our trip, we witnessed about a dozen sturgeons jumping out of the water. It’s quite the sight.

Chilliwack is about a 2 hour drive from Vancouver, depending on traffic. The fishing tours take between 6 to 8 hours, so this is a full day excursion. Here’s the company we went with .

Watch – Video of us catching a MASSIVE sturgeon fish

Harrison Hot Springs, popular Day trips from Vancouver

22. Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a resort community known for its hot springs and picturesque lake and mountain landscapes. It’s located about 2.5 hours east of Vancouver. It’s another one of our favourite day trips from Vancouver.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort is the main attraction, with its 5 hot spring pools and restaurants. However, you can only access these pools if you are a guest staying at Harrison Hot Springs Resort. Consider spending the night here, it’s a nice escape from the city.

There’s more to Harrison Hot Springs than its hot spring pools.

Harrison lake offers every kind of water sport you can imagine, from kayaking to boating to its massive floating waterpark. It has a beach, waterfront parks, golf courses and several hiking trails.

While you’re in the area, check out Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park and its beautiful cascading waterfalls. The park entrance is located just off the Trans-Canada Highway and it’s only a 10 minute hike to the waterfalls, so this is an easy pit-stop that will only take about an hour.

During the summer, you can also visit Bridal Falls Water Park . It’s a smaller water park (when compared to the Cultus Lake Water Park ), but it boasts heated water and plenty of kiddie slides and water play areas.

Related – Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs

23. Float plane to the Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are located in the Strait of Georgia (also known as Salish Sea ), between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. The most popular islands are Salt Spring Island, Galiano Island and Pender Island .

The Gulf Islands are so peaceful and relaxing. You feel like you’re a world away from Vancouver, yet they’re less than 100 kilometres away.

The Gulf Islands can be reached by ferry. It will end up being a very long day if you plan to return to Vancouver the same day. You are better off spending a night or two if you plan to travel to the islands by ferry.

Alternatively, you can take a short float plane ride from Vancouver to the Gulf Islands.

Weather does impact flights. You will need to have a Plan B if your flight is canceled or delayed due to fog or rain. You should be fine in the summer months, but winter can be hit and miss.

The float plane to the islands is half the fun, as you can see in this short video captured while flying over Howe Sound and the Gulf Islands.

powder skiing at Sasquatch Mountain Resort in British Columbia

24. Sasquatch Mountain Resort

Located about 2 hours east of Vancouver, Sasquatch Mountain Resort is a lesser known ski resort in the Lower Mainland. It’s a small, laidback mountain with 4 lifts and 36+ runs. If you like skiing and snowboarding, this is a fun mountain that’s known for having no lift lines.

Aside from skiing, this family friendly mountain offers one of the biggest snow tubing parks in the Lower Mainland, along with several snowshoe trails and a day lodge with multiple restaurants.

In the summer, the mountain offers hiking trails and disc golf. The region is also home to several ATV trails, mountains lakes (some with stocked fish) and campgrounds. It’s located less than 45 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs.

We like that Sasquatch offers accommodations on the mountain, should you choose to extend your day trip to an overnight trip .

25. Point Roberts in Washington State

Point Roberts is close in proximity to the skyscrapers of Vancouver, however, its chilled out vibe makes you feel as if you’re hundreds of miles away from the city lights. In fact, I don’t even remember seeing a traffic light in Point Roberts?

Yes, Point Roberts that kind of place. Small, friendly, safe and quiet.

There are lots of things to do in Point Roberts , like biking, hiking and beach combing, but the most common activity is doing nothing . By that, I mean waking up in the morning with no agenda and letting the mood dictate your day.

There are only a few restaurants in Point Roberts and some are seasonal, so it’s wise to check hours of operation ahead of time.

The beaches in the Pacific Northwest are different from those found in tropical climates. They are not made of soft white sand that feels silky smooth on your feet. In fact, they are quite the opposite. The beaches in this part of the world are rocky and filled with driftwood, sea shells and coarse sand. At low tide, the ocean floor is exposed and a world of sea treasures is revealed.

Note: Point Roberts is located in the United States, so you need a passport to cross the border.

Related – Photos from our trip to Point Roberts

Where to stay in Vancouver

There are plenty of hotels in Vancouver to choose from, ranging from upscale five star hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between.

Search for Vancouver hotels here .
Most of the popular Vancouver tourist attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider this when selecting where to stay in Vancouver.
Downtown hotels often require additional fees for overnight parking – sometimes as high as $40 per night. Consider this when booking hotels and car rentals.
If you prefer to stay closer to the mountains, consider staying at the Lonsdale Quay Hotel or the Holiday Inn North Vancouver . Staying outside the downtown area will make it easier for you to take these day trips from Vancouver.

Vancouver travel tips and things to know:

Pick up & return your vehicle at the Vancouver airport. Check out Expedia.com for affordable options.
If you visit during winter, make sure you have snow tires for the mountain drives.
It’s wise to book reservations for the ferry to and from Vancouver Island, especially over a holiday weekend. Here’s the list of holidays in BC . Check ferry schedule here .
Check the Vancouver weather forecast before your day trip from Vancouver. The weather in British Columbia can be unpredictable.

What day trips from Vancouver will you do?

Share your feedback and recommendations in the comments section below. Our readers thank you!

08/06/2017 at 1:31 am

Weekends are made for day trips! Loved the long list of places to add to my bucket list 🙂

02/23/2018 at 1:51 am

What a great list And perfect timing to, stumbling over your blog… as we’ll be traveling to Vancouver in a few months…

Definitely will be looking at your list of suggestions now that we are sitting down to plan our Seattle/Vancouver trip

04/27/2018 at 11:05 am

Thanks so much for all of the detailed info! We’re headed there this summer!

05/26/2018 at 1:47 pm

Lots of great information thanks for sharing . I’m think of going in September for 6 nights in Vancouver so hopefully can see quite a bit. Is there a local bus to Squamish to see sea to gondola. How faar are the other mountain points from grouse mountain. Can you get to chillwick by local transport.

09/20/2018 at 5:01 pm

This is a fantastic list and one that finally has me sorted for the itinerary for our upcoming Canada trip! Thanks for the effort in putting this together and some great photos.

04/09/2019 at 12:34 am

Your explanation of the sight seeings near Vancouver is so detailed with beautiful photos. Thanks a lot. It helps me to make a five-day tour plan in the summer.

08/25/2021 at 6:50 am

I’ve only looked closely at item 12 because I am fully informed on the topic of BC whales and whale tours.

The information here became outdated six years ago (2015) when the salmon eating southern resident killer whales last appeared for their annual May-Oct foraging for Chinook salmon, in the Gulf Islands.

Since that time the population of transient killer whales and humpback whales has exploded, they are present year round and can be seen anywhere from Sooke to Port hardy.

Road Trip Vancouver to Banff in 5 Days: Revelstoke, Golden, and Lake Louise

While we have only been home for a few days from our road trip from Vancouver to Banff, I have been inundated with requests on replicating or expanding on our recent trip. I like to call our trip from Vancouver to Banff an express trip, because we left on a Monday and were home on a Friday. If you have more time, I suggest you add to this itinerary. However, I wanted to share with you where we went, what we did, and where we stayed to help you start to plan your own trip from Vancouver to Banff, especially if you are traveling with kids like we were!

Part 1 Vancouver to Banff: Vancouver to Revelstoke

Travel Time: 6 hours

Distance: ~550 km

Accommodation : Sutton Place Revelstoke Mountain

We drove straight from the Vancouver suburbs to Revelstoke. It took about 6 hours, stopping just once along the way. We had a busy day planned at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and wanted to be able to take advantage of as much as the day as possible. While it is light out quite late in British Columbia in the summer (usually until close to 10 pm), much of the resort shuts down around dinnertime (including the restaurants on the ski hill.)

Driving from Vancouver to Revelstoke is quite easy, take Highway 1 out of town and when you get to Hope, hop onto HWY 5, the Coquihalla Highway, that will take you to Kamloops. From Kamloops, you get back onto HWY 1 and that will take you right to Revelstoke. More on getting from Vancouver to Revelstoke .

This is all highway driving and we were able to do this on a little less than one tank of fuel. Which for my Honda Pilot, is about 70 litres and costs around $110 to fill up when gas prices are over 1.60 / litre.

Because we were on a quick trip to Banff and back, Revelstoke was the perfect midpoint to stop for the (day and) night. We chose to stay at the Sutton Place on Revelstoke Mountain Resort because it meant we could park the car until the next day and enjoy all of the summer activities on the hill without worrying about driving back into town at the end of the day. There would be lots of car travel to come. It also offered a swimming pool (one of our family hotel musts, and had large rooms for our crew of 7 – we were 2 adults and 5 kids aged 5 to 15 and chose a 2 bedroom suite (since most of the kids were happy to sleep with us adults, but a 3 bdrm would have probably done us a bit better.)

We priced out other hotels in town, but would have had to book 2 rooms to fit us all in. The Sutton was the perfect choice. It also had a kitchen, which would have been perfect if we were staying a few nights. When we return this winter, I know I will love having the kitchen and being right on the mountain. The gondola was just a few steps from the exit of the hotel! The one thing that I did not like about the Sutton was that it was HUGE and our car ended up being 5 minutes walk from our room and to get to the pool it required walking outside into the “village” and into another building. But other than that, it was perfect!

Part 2 Play All Day at Revelstoke Mountain Resort

We arrived in Revelstoke around 2 pm which gave us just under half a day to enjoy the resort. I would suggest a bit more time, but now that we have done it, we know! The Revelstoke coaster is the big draw to the ski hill in the summer, allowing those non-mountain bikers to experience the thrill of a 1.4 km drop down the hill, reaching speeds of up to 42 km/h.

Because the coaster is so popular, if you have the chance, go in the morning. We did not and there was a wait of almost 2 hours. But that did not worry us. We checked in, got our Play All day passes and then took the Revelation Gondola up the mountain for a late lunch at the Mackenzie Outpost.

At the top of the Revelation Gondola, the kids could have ran around and explored for hours if we had had the time. The alpine landscape is very different than lower down the mountain. The alpine is full of loose rock and is located at over 1600m. The views of Revelstoke below and the surrounding mountains are stunning!

After lunch, our time had come up for the coaster, so we hopped into the queue (of just 5 people) and had our first coaster ride. The Resort has put together an awesome system to avoid giant queues on the hill. There are big screens with numbers on them and when your numbers come up, you can get into the line. This keeps the coaster at capacity without a big queue. If you have a play-all-day pass, you can use your second coaster ride right away, or save it for a bit later.

I have a post specifically on everything to do at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. It provides more details on what to do while you are there!

Revestoke Mountain Resort Important Information

PLAY ALL DAY PASSES

Children 6-12 $59

Under 5 $20

Includes up to 2 coaster rides, aerial park access, gondola hiking & sightseeing, axe throwing (age 10+), and disc golf.

Book online in advance or buy same day at the resort (if available)

REVELSTOKE COASTER ONLY PASS

Children 6-12 $29 ($12 if riding with an adult)

Under 5 $12

Includes one coaster ride.

Activity Hours

Hiking & Sightseeing Upper Gondola: 9:00am – 5:45pm Lower Gondola: 8:00am – 7:45pm

Pipe Mountain Coaster 8:00am – 8:00pm

Aerial Adventure Park 9:00am – 7:00pm (6:00pm last start time)

Axe Throwing 10:00am – 6:00pm

Mountain Biking 9:00am – 5:45pm (Stoke Climb closes at 4:30)

Part 3 Golden

The next part of the Road trip from Vancouver to Banff took us on a 2 hour drive from Revelstoke to Golden. Make sure you get gas in Revelstoke (we forgot when we driving out of town) as there is not much in the way of services between these two points.

There are two things that you should not miss in Golden. The first, is the brand new Golden SkyBridge , Canada’s highest suspension bridge. At 426 feet off the canyon floor, it offers 360 degree views of the Purcell mountains and the Rocky Mountains and the canyon and waterfall below.

The second thing you should not miss is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. With views from all directions atop the mountain and experiencing The Grizzly Bear Refuge, and its resident Grizzly, Boo. By observing Boo in his natural habitat, guests have the opportunity to see firsthand how beautiful and majestic grizzly bears really are. Raising awareness of these secretive and noble creatures helps to improve the plight of this embattled species.

Golden Sky Bridge Information

Hours: June – Sept 6th 9am-9pm

Sept 6th to Oct 11th 9am – 8pm

Location: 305 Golden Donald Upper Road (Just 2 minutes off Hwy 1)

2021 Rates: Adults $34 Children $17

What makes it special? Beyond the views and beyond the record-breaking height of these two suspension bridges, there is an epic kids playground that most kids could spend hours on! There is also a zipline and ropes course coming soon

How long to spend here? If you want to walk the suspension bridges, an hour is enough. If you have kids, add more time to play at the playground.

Where can I get more info? visit my post on the Golden Skybridge

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Summer Information

The Adventure pass gives you sightseeing to the top of the mountain as well as a Grizzly interpretive tour. It is the best option to get the most of your time on the mountain. The mountain is also open for mountain biking.

2021 Rates: Adult $50.95 Youth (13-17) $42.95 Child (6-12) $24.95 Senior $42.95

2021 Mountain Biking Rates (Gondola & Catamount Chair): Adult $61.95 Youth (13-17) $45.95 Child (6-12) $30.95 Senior $45.95 (Catamount Chair only rates are cheaper)

What makes it special? As the first Grizzly bear refuge, Boo’s time in captivity has been instrumental in creating many rescue and release programs for Grizzly bears in BC.

How long to spend here? Minimum 2 hours. The Grizzly tour is almost an hour and a visit to the top of Kicking Horse offers unparalleled views. If you have time, allow time to hike at the top.

Part 4 Golden To Canmore

While I am not telling you my Itinerary is perfect, I am telling you what my itinerary was. So after leaving kicking horse in the late afternoon, we drove to Canmore where we would stay for the next three nights. If we were to redo this trip, I would do Golden on the way there and Revelstoke on the way back, or the other way around. I will provide more info at the end on what I think the perfect itinerary would be (after throwing this one together … I may travel a lot, but that does not mean I plan all of the details ahead of time!)

We got into the Worldmark Canmore – Banff in the evening. My parents have a timeshare there, that is why we booked it. The name is a bit misleading, I did not know we would be 30 minutes outside of Banff, but it is a stunning town, and was happy to experience it.

Part 5 Banff in One Day

We had one day to get a first impression of Banff. We jumped at the opportunity to take a tour to give us an overview of the town. We chose to go with Pursuit’ s Open Top Touring buses ! These 1930’s inspired vehicles give plenty of views, and offer insight into what Banff was like in the 1930s. They stop at viewpoints and tell stories of what made Banff into what it was today.

After our tour we grabbed lunch and then rented bikes for the afternoon. We chose to rent from Snowtips / Baktrax because of their kid’s inventory! They had bikes for all ages as well as the ride-along bike attachment or a carrier! If we had planned better we would have chosen our route in advance, but we ended up riding over to the golf course. The road riding was nice, but the traffic was a learning curve for the kids a bit! We did get to take in the waterfall, which was well worth the trip!

At the end of the day we headed back the 30 minute drive to Canmore for a swim and dinner in our accommodations.

RELATED: If you love shopping, you will find plenty of souvenir shopping options in Banff. Read this guide to Canadian souvenirs so you know what you should be looking for!

Visiting Banff Guide

There are a few things you need to know about visiting Banff. First, the city lies right in the middle of a National Park. In order to visit the city, you need to have a park pass. You can buy them on the highway, or online in advance.

Most of the parking is paid parking. But what I liked about it was that it was not lot specific. You could renew by the hour (or two) and park anywhere in the paid parking areas. It is also a very walkable downtown, so best to leave your car somewhere convenient and walk around from there.

I would also suggest spending a night in town, that was something we will fore sure do on our next trip!

Part 6 Lake Louise Bucketlist Canoe Trip

I am a bucketlist junkie, if I see a stunning photo, I want to take the same photo. If I see an epic experience, I want to do it too. Well, Lake Louise offered both. A stunning backdrop, and a chance to canoe across the lake with my kids. The weather could not have been more perfect, the lake was like glass and the skies were blue. While the canoe rental is expensive, I honestly think it was well worth it!

After lake Louise we also visited Lake Morraine which was equally (if not more) stunning. You want to allow at least 30 minutes for each lake to get a quick look, add an hour for Canoeing and some time for hiking around Lake Morraine if that interests you.

The toughest part about the visit to Lake Louise is the parking situation. Visiting Lake Louise and Lake Morraine also requires a Parks Canada pass, as they are inside Banff National Park. The Parks Canada website makes it very clear that parking is very limited at both of the parking lots (it also costs to Park at Lake Louise, over $11 for the day pass). What they have done is put together a park and ride shuttle.

You buy your shuttle time in advance online. When you arrive to the park and ride (parking is free) you board the shuttle to either lake. There is another shuttle that runs in between the lakes. We chose to do Lake Louise first, then shuttle to Lake Morraine and then shuttle back to the car. If you drive to Lake Louise and then want to go to Lake Morraine, you have to drive, and then hope there is parking at the second lake.

The Parks Canada site makes it sound like there are big lineups for the shuttle. We went mid-week, and there were no lineups for the shuttle. One time, we were the only group on the shuttle. I will write a post more about how to book the shuttle. (Because it is a government website, it is ridiculously complicated and not-user friendly … what government site is, but I promise, the experience itself was seamless and actually very convenient!)

We spent just over 3 hours to do both lakes and then headed back to Canmore (about an hour’s drive) and enjoyed an afternoon at the pool. We were going home already the next day.

Part 7 Vancouver to Banff Road Trip is Going Home

We packed up early in the morning and were on the road by 9am. We knew it was a long road home, but had commitments to make, hence why it was a quick trip. We drove straight from Canmore back to Vancouver, stopping in Revelstoke (about 4 hours in) to have lunch and get fuel (it was soooo busy there, its a popular meal and rest stop) and continued on to Sicamous. 10km out of Sicamous we encountered dead stop traffic. Thanks to DriveBC (I highly suggest you check it out before you leave and during your trip for all road related matters) we found out there had been a collision and the road was closed. We waited for 20 minutes before turning around and back in Sicamous we headed to Vernon. We were able to divert through Enderby, only adding about 45 minutes to our trip. We stopped once for ice cream and continued the drive back home.

Honestly the kids did great, it was a long time to be in the car. But if I had to do it again, I would have broken up the drove home with a Revelstoke or Golden overnight. While not every road trip is perfect, this is the itinerary we did. Now that we have done it and learned from our planning errors, I have put together an itinerary that (to me) makes more sense over the same amount of days!

Suggested Itinerary Road Trip Vancouver to Banff and back in 5 Days

Day 1 Vancouver to Golden

Drive to Golden and enjoy the skybridge in the late evening.

Revelstoke and enjoy Revelstoke Mountain Resort in the afternoon. Overnight at the Sutton Place on Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Day 2 Golden to Canmore

Get up in the morning and enjoy Kicking Horse Mountain resort and then drive to Canmore. Enjoy an afternoon exploring in Canmore and overnight.

Day 3 Banff Day Trip

Enjoy Banff for the day and either return to Canmore accommodations or stay overnight in Banff

Day 4 Lake Louise and Lake Morraine then to Revelstoke

The lakes can be done in a half day, then drive to Revelstoke for overnight. If you start early enough, you can enjoy the resort in the evening. Overnight st Sutton Place.

Day 5 Revelstoke to Vancouver

If you did not enjoy the resort the night before, an early morning start means the coaster will likely have no lineup. Explore the resort until the early afternoon and then it is a 6 hour drive back home.

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

Richmond & Vancouver 6-Day Explorer: Unveiling Urban Charms & Natural Wonders

April 22, 2024 · 4 min read

Embark on a 6-day journey through the vibrant cities of Richmond and Vancouver with Trip.com's expertly curated itinerary. Begin your adventure at the Vancouver Aquarium, immersing yourself in marine life for two hours before exploring the lush landscapes of Stanley Park. Capture the grandeur of the Lions Gate Bridge with a brief visit. Day two takes you soaring over Canada at FlyOver Canada's cinematic experience, followed by the iconic Canada Place and panoramic views from the Vancouver Lookout. Day three is a cultural feast with Gastown's historic charm, Chinatown's rich heritage, and the artisanal allure of Granville Island. The modern architecture of Downtown Vancouver awaits on day four, along with the serene Queen Elizabeth Park and the botanical wonders of VanDusen Garden. Day five invites you to the natural tranquility of Iona Beach Regional Park, the athletic legacy of the Richmond Olympic Oval, and the peaceful Minoru Park. Conclude your trip with an exhilarating whale watching tour from Vancouver Whale Watch, the bustling Steveston Harbour, and the fresh catches at Steveston Fisherman's Wharf. This itinerary promises a blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Diving into Vancouver's Aquatic Wonders and Iconic Landscapes

Vancouver Aquarium

Begin your Vancouver adventure with a splash at the Vancouver Aquarium, nestled in the heart of the city at 845 Avison Way. As the first stop on your itinerary, spend a mesmerizing 2 hours exploring the underwater world. This premier aquarium is a gateway to the oceanic marvels, featuring a vast array of marine life that will captivate your senses. From the enchanting jellyfish to the playful otters, each exhibit is designed to educate and inspire visitors about the aquatic inhabitants and their ecosystems.

Attraction Info

845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
Open from 4/3-4/20,10:00am-5:00pm;Open 9:30am-5:00pm on 4/21,Sun;Open from 4/22-5/25,10:00am-5:00pm;Open 9:30am-5:00pm on 5/26,Sun;Open from 5/27-6/23,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 6/24-9/1,9:30am-5:30pm，The specific business status during holidays and event days is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Stanley Park

After immersing yourself in marine wonders, step outside to the lush expanse of Stanley Park, a verdant oasis that's just a stone's throw away. Allocate another 2 hours to meander through this urban retreat, where towering trees and scenic pathways lead you to tranquil lakes and stunning viewpoints. Stanley Park is not just a green space; it's a cultural haven that offers a glimpse into Vancouver's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Lions Gate Bridge

Conclude your first day with a brief yet breathtaking visit to the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. A mere 30-minute stop will allow you to witness the grandeur of this architectural marvel. Connecting the city to the North Shore, the bridge offers panoramic views that are especially dramatic at dusk. The Lions Gate Bridge is more than a crossing; it's a symbol of Vancouver's connection to the wild and rugged landscapes that lie beyond the city limits.

Lions Gate Bridge Rd, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
Open 24 hours

Where to Stay Tonight

Travelodge by wyndham vancouver lions gate, surestay hotel by best western north vancouver capilano.

Day 2: Soaring Heights and Iconic Sights in Vancouver

FlyOver Canada

Begin your second day with a simulated aerial adventure at FlyOver Canada. Conveniently located at 999 Canada Pl #201, this cinematic experience offers a thrilling half-hour journey through Canada's stunning landscapes without leaving Vancouver. Feel the wind in your hair and mist on your face as you 'fly' over majestic mountains and sweeping valleys, all from the comfort of your seat.

999 Canada Pl #201, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada
Open from 10:00am-8:00pm

Canada Place

Next, step out into the heart of Vancouver at Canada Place, just a short walk from your previous stop. Spend an hour exploring this bustling square, which is not only an architectural marvel but also a hub of activity. With its distinctive white sails stretching towards the sky, Canada Place serves as a landmark for the city and a perfect backdrop for those all-important travel photos.

999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Vancouver Lookout

Cap off your day's exploration with a visit to the Vancouver Lookout, located at 555 W Hastings St. Ascend to the observation deck and spend an hour immersed in 360-degree panoramic views of Vancouver's skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the North Shore Mountains. It's an ideal spot to reflect on your journey so far and watch the city's bustling life unfold below.

555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada
Open from 10:00am-6:00pm，*Open at 12 pm on February 16th

Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites

The cambie hostel seymour.

Day 3: Exploring Vancouver's Vibrant Neighborhoods

Begin your third day with a stroll through Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, where cobblestone streets and a whiff of history blend with modern boutiques and buzzing cafes. As the first stop of the day, Gastown offers a delightful contrast to the bustling city, providing an intimate experience with its quaint charm and the iconic steam clock that whistles every quarter hour. Spend an hour here soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps picking up a unique souvenir from one of the local artisans.

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Next, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Vancouver by visiting Chinatown, just a short walk from Gastown. This characteristic neighborhood, one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, invites you to explore its vibrant streets for an hour. Discover exotic shops, historic buildings, and some of the city's best culinary delights. Don't miss the chance to visit the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a perfect spot to reflect and take a break from the urban rush.

Granville Island

Conclude your day's adventure at Granville Island, a bustling peninsula known for its public market, artisan shops, and performing arts. With two hours to explore, you can savor gourmet foods, browse through unique handcrafted goods, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The island's waterfront setting offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it an ideal location to unwind and capture memorable photos of your Vancouver journey.

Granville Island Hotel

The parker hotel vancouver.

Day 4: Urban Oasis and Botanical Wonders in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver

Begin your fourth day with the urban pulse of Downtown Vancouver, where sleek modern architecture towers above bustling streets. As the heart of the city, this area encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Vancouver within its compact skyline. Spend an hour soaking in the contemporary vibes and perhaps catch a glimpse of the city's daily rhythm as you prepare for a day of scenic beauty.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Next, escape to the serene Queen Elizabeth Park, a horticultural gem nestled in the city. Just a short journey from the downtown core, this landscape garden offers a tranquil retreat with its manicured lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and panoramic views of the city and mountains beyond. Dedicate an hour to meander through the park's pathways, and don't miss the chance to capture the perfect photo against the backdrop of Vancouver's skyline.

4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada
Open from 6:00am-10:00pm

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Conclude your day's exploration at the enchanting VanDusen Botanical Garden. This sprawling sanctuary is a living tapestry of plant life from around the globe, offering a peaceful two-hour respite among its meticulously curated gardens. Wander through the maze of flora, discover the garden's themed areas, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that flourishes here. It's a botanical experience that beautifully showcases Vancouver's dedication to green spaces and environmental diversity.

5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
Open from 11/1-2/28,10:00am-2:00pm;Open from 3/1-3/31,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 4/1-4/30,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 5/1-5/31,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 6/1-9/2,9:00am-7:00pm;Open from 9/3-10/31,9:00am-5:00pm，Closed on December 25th, the specific business status is subject to the opening situation on that day.

Granville House B and B

Ubc beautiful house.

Day 5: Exploring Richmond's Natural Beauty and Olympic Legacy

Iona Beach Regional Park

Begin your day with a serene visit to Iona Beach Regional Park, a tranquil city park nestled at 900 Ferguson Rd. As the first stop on your fifth day, immerse yourself in the park's peaceful ambiance for approximately 2 hours. Known for its unique jetty that extends into the ocean, Iona Beach is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or bird-watching session. The combination of sandy shores and wetlands creates a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers alike.

900 Ferguson Rd, Richmond, BC V7B 1W7, Canada
Open from 7:00am-9:00pm

Richmond Olympic Oval

After soaking in the natural wonders of Iona Beach, make your way to the Richmond Olympic Oval, located at 6111 River Rd. Spend the next 2 hours exploring this iconic venue that once dazzled the world during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Now a multi-sport facility and community hub, the Oval offers visitors a glimpse into Canada's sporting excellence and the Olympic spirit. Don't miss the chance to see the impressive architecture and perhaps catch some athletic action.

6111 River Rd, Richmond, BC V7C 0A2, Canada
Open on Mon-Fri,6:00am-11:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,7:00am-9:00pm

Minoru Park

Conclude your day's adventure with a relaxing hour at Minoru Park, a charming city park situated at 7191 Granville Ave. As the final stop, Minoru Park provides a serene escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and tranquil ponds. It's a favorite among locals for a quick respite or a leisurely stroll. The park's proximity to Richmond's cultural and civic amenities makes it a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

7191 Granville Ave, Richmond, BC V6Y 4G2, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
Open from 5:00am-10:00pm

Panda Pod Hotel

Vancouver b.c. airport hotel.

Day 6: Majestic Marine Farewell in Richmond

Vancouver Whale Watch

Begin the final day of your Richmond adventure with an exhilarating encounter with the ocean's gentle giants at Vancouver Whale Watch. Nestled at 12240 Second Ave, this three-hour tour offers a chance to witness the majestic beauty of whales in their natural habitat. As you glide across the waves, keep your eyes peeled for the awe-inspiring sight of these marine creatures breaching the surface, while the knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into their lives.

12240 Second Ave #210, Richmond, BC V7E 3L8, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
Open from 8:00am-7:00pm

Steveston Harbour

After the thrill of whale watching, continue your maritime journey to Steveston Harbour, a cornerstone of Richmond's nautical heritage. Spend about three hours exploring the bustling docks at 3820 Bayview St, where the salty sea air and the cries of seagulls accompany a vibrant display of local sea vessels. The harbour's lively atmosphere and picturesque views offer a perfect backdrop to reflect on the region's fishing legacy and its connection to the sea.

3820 Bayview St, Richmond, BC V7E 4R7, Canada

Steveston Fisherman's Wharf

Conclude your Richmond voyage with a visit to the charming Steveston Fisherman's Wharf. With just an hour at 3866 Bayview St, immerse yourself in the quaint market atmosphere where the fresh catch of the day is always on offer. Stroll along the boardwalk, indulge in some seafood delights, and soak in the last moments of your trip amidst the colorful array of boats and the friendly chatter of local fishermen.

3866 Bayview St #140, Richmond, BC V7E 4R7, Canada
Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
Open from 8:00am-4:30pm

Vancouver six

The steveston cafe & hotel.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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5 best vancouver brunches.

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Notch8 offers a delicious traditional spread.

We could all use a little glamour on our weekends. While Vancouver may be known more for its striking natural setting and myriad outdoor adventures than for its opulent eating , the city can surprise you with its celebratory weekend brunches.

We’ve rounded up five of our favorite destinations to enjoy when Saturday or Sunday calls for something special.

Classic Brunch at Notch8

When nothing but a classic brunch will do, head for Notch8, the glamourous dining room and lounge at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Fairmont Hotel Vancouver , Vancouver’s “Castle in the City.”

At this traditional buffet, chefs stand by to cook eggs to order or carve the weekend roast. You can assemble your salad, dig into an ocean’s worth of chilled seafood or go sweet with the chocolate banana bread pudding. A peach bellini, a Canadian Caesar (a bloody mary with Clamato juice) or a simple glass of prosecco make excellent accompaniments.

Try mushroom toast and inventive mocktails at Botanist.

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High-Style Weekending at Botanist

From the sleek Asian-influenced design to the recently launched Nordic Spa experience, everything about Five-Star Fairmont Pacific Rim in downtown Vancouver says “high style.” And the multi-course weekend brunch at Botanist, the property’s flagship restaurant, is no exception.

Choose from two or three courses, with highlights ranging from mushroom toast with truffle aioli or burrata salad with smoked beets to fermented chili-torched salmon or decadently rich lobster eggs Benedict. While you can opt for a cocktail like Me Time (a blend of rum, blackberry, chai and crème de cacao), inventive alcohol-free drinks such as Raspberry Beret (raspberry, elderflower and black tea) or the spring-celebrating First Bloom (cherry blossom tea, Douglas fir, yuzu and soda) are great alternatives.

Add a sweet to wrap up your meal — perhaps almond crème brûlée or a fantasia of chocolate and cherries. It’s the weekend, after all.

Have a throwback brunch at Parq Vancouver.

Back to the ’80s at The Victor’s Disco Brunch

If you’re in the mood to kick off your weekend with a livelier scene, dance back to the ’80s at The Victor’s Disco Brunch.

All of the throwback buffet fun at The Victor — the restaurant sits in Parq Vancouver, the copper-clad complex housing Forbes Travel Guide Recommended properties JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and The Douglas — takes place on the third Sunday of each month.

There’ll be plenty of good times as you concoct your cocktail at the Bloody Bar. Or, for something fizzier, opt for a flight from a rolling mimosa cart where you’ll find bubbles blending with orange, blood orange, raspberry and pomegranate juices.

Seafood is a standout among the ample spread. There’s a raw bar with fresh oysters, tuna poke, a selection of sushi and steamed mussels and clams. Carnivores might head directly to the carving station while everyone else gravitates to the pastry table.

Enjoy some delicious dim sum.

Upscale Dim Sum at Mott 32

You don’t have to wait for the weekend for an elaborate dim sum meal at Mott 32 at Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Paradox Hotel Vancouver . In the octagonal dining room, where exposed concrete and other industrial components blend with traditional Asian design elements, the Vancouver branch of this luxurious Hong Kong-based restaurant serves upscale dim sum every day.

The kitchen upgrades classic tea-lunch dishes with luxe ingredients and inventive twists. Inside the shu mai , topped with black truffle, is a perfectly runny quail egg, while the shrimp-stuffed rice rolls balance smooth rice wraps with a satisfying crunch. The bright orange, hot and sour Iberico pork soup dumplings are made with carrot puree (for the vivid color) and moderately spicy broth.

Chambar , a Local Favorite

One of Vancouver’s most welcoming weekend spots is Chambar , where the chef mixes his Belgian heritage with North African flavors and plenty of local ingredients.

Get your morning going with Do It Yourself Mimosas, a carafe of fresh orange juice and a bottle of bubbly for the table. Foodwise, moules frites (mussels and fries) are a specialty, and the fricassee (a hearty plate with braised short ribs, fried eggs, caramelized onions and potatoes) is always a good choice.

Waffles are another favorite, starting with a simple version served with your choice of sauce, like berry compote, salted caramel or classic dark chocolate. But it’s hard to pass up the gaufre à la raclette , a sourdough waffle layered with prosciutto, mushroom ragoût, soft-boiled eggs, melted cheese, frisée and candied bacon salad.

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Predators took 'somber' trip to Vancouver, bring Game 6 back home as NHL playoffs continue

Nashville Predators center Michael McCarron tucked a square Super Tock game board under his right arm as he got off a giant Delta airplane with his teammates and the team personnel Wednesday evening, 18 or so hours removed from a 2-1 victory in Vancouver.

"It's kind of like Sorry!" McCarron said.

The object of the game — which, like Sorry!, is played with cards rather than dice — is to take all four of your tokens, or marbles, "home."

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"We played for a couple of hours on the plane," he said. "We took naps, too."

The object of the Predators' trip to Vancouver for Game 5 of their first-round, best-of-seven NHL playoffs series also was to get "home," without being sorry, for Game 6 at 6 p.m. Friday (Bally Sports South, TNT, MAX) Friday at Bridgestone Arena.

Mission accomplished, thanks to some bounces finally going their way Tuesday and Sunday's colossal collapse another day further away.

'Everybody had a somber night'

The flight to Vancouver on Monday, McCarron said, was therapeutic.

"It was good, just getting the guys back together," he said. "Probably everybody had a somber night. It wasn't easy on anyone.

"That's probably one of the saddest times I've had in hockey. It was a terrible way to lose the game. But once you get on the bird and get around your teammates again, you talk things out, get everything out of the way."

Some long-awaited "puck luck" waited for the Predators in Vancouver, where the Canucks took a 1-0 lead before the Predators roared back with two goals, including Roman Josi's score that somehow snuck into the net off of third-string goalie Arturs Silovs.

Then Alex Carrier scored his first postseason goal. The Predators held on. The series moved back to Nashville.

Fight for your right?

The Predators have shown zero lack of fight as underdogs during this series. But the lack of actual fights — zero — has been somewhat of an upset.

McCarron, whose 100 penalty minutes were tops on the team this season, whose eight fighting majors are tied with Jeremy Lauzon , has done his fair share of talking. But he's not sure it will go beyond that.

"It's the playoffs, man," he said. "I don't know if anybody really wants to sit out for five minutes.

"There's not your prototypical fighters anymore. Everybody can play. So a team needs everybody, on both sides."

McCarron paused.

"I mean, if it happens, it happens," he continued. "We'll continue to play physically."

And on Friday, they'll be playing for a flight back to Vancouver for Game 7 on Sunday.

Paul Skrbina is a sports enterprise reporter covering the Predators, Titans, Nashville SC, local colleges and local sports for The Tennessean. Reach him at [email protected] and on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter) @paulskrbina . Follow his work here .

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A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

A Royal Caribbean International Alaska voyage became a cruise to nowhere over the weekend, with the line canceling the sailing after guests had already boarded.

The cruise line’s Radiance of the Seas ship experienced propulsion issues, forcing it to shorten and eventually scrap the weeklong itinerary, according to notices shared with guests. The sailing was originally set to depart from Vancouver on Friday.

Charlene Chong, who was on board with her husband, their 3-year and 11-month-old children, and her parents, said passengers were notified Saturday afternoon that the cruise was canceled. The 34-year-old teacher and her husband previously took a cruise for their honeymoon, but this marked their first trip with Royal Caribbean.

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“My parents had wanted to go to Alaska for a really long time,” said Chong, who lives in Vancouver.

The cruise line warned guests several days before boarding that the ship had a “technical issue with its propulsion system,” according to an email sent to passengers that Chong shared with USA TODAY. The line later pushed the departure back by two days to allow more time for repairs.

Royal Caribbean said boarding would proceed as planned but that the terminal would close Friday evening due to U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules. Passengers would not be able to leave until the ship arrived at Icy Strait Point.

“We were going stir crazy a little bit,” said Chong.

Royal Caribbean gave guests onboard credit worth two days of their fare, a future cruise credit of the same amount, complimentary drinks and other compensation, another email said.

According to Chong, the ship sailed toward a nearby cargo port, but the captain announced Saturday afternoon that the sailing could not proceed and that guests would need to disembark by Sunday at 4 p.m. Chong said she and her family were “lucky” they were local, but she saw other guests scrambling to change their flights and find accommodations.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

“We understand the disappointment due to this unfortunate turn of events,” the cruise line said in a letter shared with guests. “We truly extend our sincerest apologies for the continued unforeseen disruptions to your vacation.”

Royal Caribbean gave them their money back as onboard credit with any remaining amount refunded, increased their future cruise credit to 100% of their fare and kept its open-bar policy for the remaining time on board. The line also offered to reimburse trip change fees up to $250 for guests traveling domestically and $400 for international travel and additional reimbursements for hotel and transportation costs, among other compensation.

“Due to a technical issue, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the April 26 sailing," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "Guests will receive a full refund and 100% future cruise credit, and have been notified directly.” The spokesperson did not comment on the specifics of Chong's experience.

The ship will resume service for its May 3 sailing.

After they got home, Chong and her family booked a trip to Mexico instead – though her parents decided not to join as they were “a bit exhausted by the whole ordeal.” For now, she’s not inclined to use the future cruise credit. “I would like to go to Alaska,” she said. “I'm not sure if I want to go with them.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

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HMCS Max Bernays Commissioning and Fleet Week in Vancouver

From: National Defence

Media advisory

Media are invited to attend a number of events for the Royal Canadian Navy’s Fleet Week and the commissioning of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Max Bernays at the Burrard Dry Dock Pier in North Vancouver from May 2 to May 5, 2024.

May 2, 2024 – Esquimalt, B.C. – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Event Schedule

All events will be taking place at Burrard Dry Dock Pier, 15 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC.

Event details, RSVP, and sign-up details are available below.

Fleet Week media tour on board HMCS Vancouver

What: Media are invited to attend a tour of HMCS Vancouver , a Halifax-class vessel, as we kick off Fleet Week to help promote the event and increase public participation. Media will be able to speak with members of the ship’s company.

When: Media are to meet at the entrance of HMCS Vancouver at 1:45 p.m. on May 2, 2024. The onboard tour will commence at 2 p.m. with a media scrum to commence on completion of the tour. Please RSVP by 4 p.m. on May 1, 2024, via contact details below.

World of Warships with Commander Royal Canadian Navy

What: Media are invited to attend a World of Warships livestream gaming event with Commander Royal Canadian Navy Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee will be playing World of Warships where he will be leading a virtual fleet for the first time. He will be available for media interviews when the livestream concludes.

When: Friday May 3rd, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm. Interested media should arrive at 11:00 a.m.

HMCS Max Bernays Commissioning Ceremony

What: Media are invited to tour the first Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel to join Canada’s Pacific Fleet: HMCS Maxnbsp; Bernays prior to the ship’s official commissioning ceremony. Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, will be attending the ceremony in her role as Commodore-in-Chief, Canadian Fleet Pacific.

After the tour, media will be able to speak with Commander Collin Forsberg, HMCS Max Bernays Commanding Officer.

When: On May 3, 2024, members of the media are to meet on the pier adjacent to HMCS Max Bernays at 12:50 p.m. The tour will commence at 1 p.m. and conclude with a media engagement. Interested media are asked to confirm attendance with Maritime Forces Pacific Public Affairs by 4 p.m. on May 1, 2024, at the contact details below.

Notes to editor

The Maritime Forces Pacific public affairs team and designated spokespeople will be available throughout the weekend, starting the afternoon of Thursday May 2nd. Media are asked to specifically articulate which event they are interested in participating in when RSVPing for an event.

Associated links

Fleet Week 2024
HMCS Max Bernays

Maritime Forces Pacific Public Affairs Phone: 250-363-5789 or 250-888-6775 Email: [email protected]

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5 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 5 Day Itinerary
Priceoftravel.com's Vancouver backpacker rating is $107.27 USD (or $144.11 CAD), so for the basics you should expect to pay about $720.55 for five days in Vancouver. Naturally, if you want to stay at more expensive hotels (or eat top notch meals) you'll be looking at closer to $200.00 a day.
Best 5 Days in Vancouver Itinerary with Map!
Table of Contents. Getting Around Vancouver. Where to Stay in Vancouver. Vancouver Itinerary Overview | Map. Day 1 | Granville Island. Day 2 | Stanley Park and Gastown. Day 3 | Photo Spots around Vancouver BC. Day 4 | UBC Area & Richmond. Day 5 | Shopping & Museums.
How To See Vancouver With A 5-Day Itinerary
If you're visiting for a short time, this Vancouver 5-day itinerary was made for you. Vancouver's combination of urban and natural features makes it a popular travel destination. It has hosted major events like the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 1986 World Expo, and appeared in many films and television shows.
5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: A Friendly Guide to Exploring the Best of
Day 2: Spend the day at Stanley Park. Hike the trails, rent a bike, or have a picnic in the park. Day 3: Take a day trip to Whistler, a popular ski resort located just a couple of hours away from Vancouver. Day 4: Visit Granville Island and explore its many shops, restaurants, and galleries.
5 days in Vancouver
Credit: City Cycle Tours. No visit to Vancouver is complete without cycling the famous Stanley Park Seawall. The wall is 10km (6 miles) long and circles the entire park, which is a crown jewel of the city. ... Day 5 - Shopping and sightseeing . Exploring West End - lunch and Robson Street - 3 hours. Spend your last day exploring the city ...
5-Day Vancouver Itinerary
Make the most out of your 5 days in Vancouver by exploring these top visited places: Stanley Park, Hawksworth Restaurant, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Water St. Café, Granville Island Public Market, The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant, Queen Elizabeth Park, Seasons in the Park, Science World, and Nuba in Gastown.
5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: Unforgettable Trip Plan
Explore the best of Vancouver with our 5-Day Vancouver Itinerary, perfectly crafted to ensure an unforgettable trip full of top attractions. ... 5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: Unforgettable Trip Plan. February 17, 2024. 229. 0. Facebook. Twitter. Pinterest. #image_title.
5 days in Vancouver Itinerary: day-by-day Guide
This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Vancouver. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit. Day 1: Explore the Heart of Vancouver. Morning. Start your day with a visit to Stanley Park, Vancouver's largest urban park. Enjoy a bike ride around the seawall or visit the Vancouver ...
Vancouver in 5 Days
Details & Booking. See Vancouver in five days using the top attractions itinerary, easy going itinerary, packed itinerary or family itinerary. Whichever you choose you will see the main attractions like Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium and Canada Place. Families can relax on the Spanish Banks Beach and Science World.
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The Vancouver Lookout, an observation deck more than 550 feet above the ground, is located practically across the street. From the top, you will have 360-degree views of the city. Keep in mind a ticket costs $15-$20. The Lookout can be visited during the day or at night.
Highlights of Vancouver
If your trip falls on a summertime Friday, after some downtime at a café or exploring additional Vancouver neighborhoods, make your way to the lively Shipyards Night Market. Open from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Fridays from May to September, the market fills Shipbuilders' Square with live music performances and a hopping scene.
FUN 5-Day Vancouver Itinerary for Families
Find and book a hotel for your 5 day Vancouver trip here. 5 Days in Vancouver: Conclusion Vancouver offers excellent outdoor activities, interactive experiences, and more for the entire family.
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Day 3: Ferry to Victoria. Take a morning car ferry (I recommend the 9:00 ferry option and can arrange this for you) from Vancouver over to Victoria, BC. This is a 90-minute ferry ride and it is advised that you arrive 60 minutes before your ferry departure. Once in Victoria, grab a quick fish and chips lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish and make your ...
5 Days in British Columbia
Day 3. Sechelt to Vancouver (2 h 30 min) Vancouver. Day 4. Explore Vancouver's Downtown & Neighborhoods. Vancouver. Day 5. Depart Vancouver. Travelers often overlook the Sunshine Coast in favor of Whistler, but this is the perfect route to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of British Columbia's coastline.
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How to get to Bowen Island from Vancouver: Perhaps the best boat trip you can take in this region is the BC Ferries ' service from West Vancouver's Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island. The 250 express bus from downtown Vancouver takes you directly to the ferry dock; from there, it's a 20-minute hop to Bowen. 5.
Vancouver Day Trips
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Here's a quick recap of the itinerary: Day 1: Vancouver to Whistler, overnight in Whistler. Day 2: Joffre Lakes, overnight in Whistler. Day 3: Visit Sloquet Hot Springs, overnight in Whistler (you can also camp overnight at the campground by Sloquet. Here's some info on what the camping is like)
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Fort Langley. Fort Langley is a quaint town located about 45 minutes east of Vancouver on the Fraser River. The town has a long colonial history which can be seen in the beautiful old buildings and architectural styles. The town itself is home to a bunch of museums, shops, galleries, parks, and restaurants to explore.
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Vancouver Island Road Trip 5 day itinerary. On this Vancouver Island Road Trip, you'll taste the Nanaimo Bar Trail, marvel at giant trees, beach comb at a National Park, hike in a rainforest, go surfing in Tofino, see the capital city and spot whales in the wild. Sound like fun?
5 Days Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary
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25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver, Canada
We're going to kick things off with our top day trips from Vancouver, rather than saving the best for last. Located 125 km north of Vancouver (about 1.5 hour drive), Whistler is a four season resort town with more than 8,000 acres of terrain spread across multiple mountain peaks. Simply put - if you like adventure, Whistler is built for you!
Road Trip Vancouver to Banff in 5 Days: Revelstoke, Golden, and Lake
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A peach bellini, a Canadian Caesar (a bloody mary with Clamato juice) or a simple glass of prosecco make excellent accompaniments. Try mushroom toast and inventive mocktails at Botanist. Fairmont ...
11 free things to do in Vancouver this weekend, from May 3 to 5
Price: Free admission. When: May 3 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., May 4 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and May 5 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Address: The Shipyards, 15 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver. Why You Should Go ...
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The object of the Predators' trip to Vancouver for Game 5 of their first-round, best-of-seven NHL playoffs series also was to get "home," without being sorry, for Game 6 at 6 p.m. Friday (Bally ...
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Reality check: Cinco de Mayo — or, in English, May 5 — marks a Mexican victory over France 50 years after Mexico's independence. Mexico's Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16. The big picture: It is a bigger holiday in America than it is in Mexico. "Cinco de Mayo is a day to celebrate the resilience, culture, and heritage of ...
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The sailing was originally set to depart from Vancouver on Friday. ... Start the day smarter. ... The line also offered to reimburse trip change fees up to $250 for guests traveling domestically ...
HMCS Max Bernays Commissioning and Fleet Week in Vancouver
Phone: 250-363-5789 or 250-888-6775. Email: [email protected]. Date modified: 2024-05-02. Media are invited to attend a number of events for the Royal Canadian Navy's Fleet Week and the commissioning of His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Max Bernays at the Burrard Dry Dock Pier in North Vancouver from May 2 to May 5 ...

5 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 5 Day Itinerary

How I Planned This 5 Day Trip to Vancouver

What to Do in Vancouver: 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Understanding Vancouver Culture & History

Day 2: Discover Vancouver’s Outdoor Wonders

Day 3: Explore Granville Island + Killer Whales

Day 4: Stanley Park & Gourmet Dining

Day 5: Tour Vancouver’s Diverse Neighborhoods

5 Days in Vancouver Itinerary FAQ

How much spending money for 5 days in Vancouver?

Can you spend 5 days in Vancouver?

Is five days in Vancouver enough?

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Day 2 | Stanley Park and Gastown

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Day 3 | Photo Spots around Vancouver BC

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

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Queen Elizabeth Park

Day 4 | UBC Area & Richmond

Museum of Anthropology

Day 5 | Shopping & Museums

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Roedde House Museum

Science World

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Before You Go (“Day 0”)

Day 1: Scope Out The City

Day 2: Whale Watching/Vancouver Aquarium

Day 3: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park/Grouse Mountain

Day 4: Take A Food (Or Film) Tour

Day 5: Granville Island

Final Thoughts

Privacy Overview

5-Day Vancouver Itinerary: A Friendly Guide to Exploring the Best of British Columbia’s Coastal City

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5 days in Vancouver - Unmissable itinerary ideas for your holiday

Day 1 – A leisurely day to get your bearings

Granville Market - 3-4 hours

Gastown for the evening – 3 hours

Day 2 – Active adventures on the North Shore

Grouse Mountain - 4 hours

Evening meal on Grouse Mountain or Coal Harbour – 2 hours

Day 3 – Nature and wildlife in the city

Vancouver Whale watching tour – 3-5 hours

Day 4 – Culture and relaxation

Swim in Kitsilano pool – 2 hours

Dr Sun Yat Sen Gardens – 1-2 hours

Dinner in Chinatown – 2 hours

Day 5 – Shopping and sightseeing

Vancouver aquarium - 2 hours

Sunset and supper in English Bay - 2 hours

Ready to visit?

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