vancouver tours uk

Skip to main content

By using ba.com you agree to the use of cookies .

Log in or Sign up for the Executive Club

Use this form to log in to your account or to create an account for the British Airways executive club

Your account

Book flights quicker, pay with avios and earn rewards as an executive club member..

1 Avios per £1 spent | BA Amex® Credit Card

Rep 31.0% APR var. | T&Cs apply. Find out more

Vancouver holidays

•   Share on Facebook.
•   Share on Twitter.
•   Share on LinkedIn.
• Premium Economy
• Business/Club

Young adults

12 to 15 years

2 to 11 years

Under 2 years

2 to 17 years

Skip to Navigation

Holidays exploring Vancouver

Surrounded by both the ocean and the mountains, Vancouver is a vibrant city that appears to have it all – natural beauty, an exciting multicultural foodie scene and plenty of opportunities for wild encounters. 

The city itself is a grid of glassy towers: explore the areas by lunching in historic Gastown before an afternoon in the Classical Chinese Garden. Veer off the waterfront into forested Stanley Park – which is one of the world’s best urban parks – to escape all evidence of the city. The temperate rainforest has massive Douglas firs, centuries-old cedars, and winding paths leading to Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon. If you’ve lucked out with the weather, relax on one of the beaches looking out onto English Bay.

Head out to ski at Whistler, explore wine country of the Okanagan, drive into the Canadian Rockies or watch whales in the wild from Vancouver Island. Book flights to Vancouver and discover it all.

Vancouver hotels we recommend

Rosedale on Robson Suite Hotel

BA Star Rating

TripAdvisor rating

2254 reviews

Flights + 5 nights hotel 

from  £941  pp 26 Feb - 03 Mar

Hyatt Regency Vancouver

6068 reviews

from  £1009  pp 08 Jan - 13 Jan

Vancouver fly-drive holidays

Group E - Chevrolet Malibu or similar

Flights + 7 days car hire

from  £743  pp

Group A - Mitsubishi Mirage or similar

from  £745  pp

Group B - Nissan Versa or similar

Areas of vancouver, discover the city, neighbourhood by neighbourhood..

Founding fathers are often remarkable characters. Vancouver’s are no exception. Though British explorer George Vancouver gives the city its name, it was Gassy Jack who set up the first tavern in the region. His mottled bronze likeness stands down the road from the town clock, which runs on steam and spouts it like a kettle. It is in this area that you’ll find plenty of restaurants. Photographers, head to Vancouver Lookout for views of the city harbour and take a picture of Hotel Europe, which resembles New York’s Flatiron Building.

Named after the prestigious university, Yaletown has an air of sophistication. The neighbourhood runs along the sea wall on Vancouver’s south side. There are some lovely interior décor stores here, including The Cross Décor and Design, which also sells art and prints. Go here to shop among the sophisticated residents, and grab a beer at Yaletown Brewing Co. Across the bridge you’ll reach Granville Island, with the famous food market and great shopping in South Granville.

With thirty per cent of Vancouver’s population being of Chinese descent, it’s not surprising that Chinatown is an important part of the cultural make-up of the city. Here, buy loose leaf tea in the street markets and stroll into the Classical Chinese Garden – the first of its kind created outside of China. You can have a magnificent dim sum lunch by picking from a trolley of delicacies and dumplings in a restaurant. The nightlife scene is exciting, too.

Between busy downtown and Stanley Park, West End has a bit of both the country and the city about it. First off, there are two great public beaches: English Bay beach, which hosts summer fireworks and Sunset Beach. Then there’s Davie Village, the epicentre of Vancouver’s LGBT community and then Robson Street, one of the best streets for shopping and people watching in Vancouver. So start your day with a run in Stanley Park, hit the shops and then paddleboard along busy English Bay Beach in the evening, when the crowds are leaving.

Terms and Conditions

Why choose British Airways Holidays?

Enjoy these great benefits:

• Book flight + hotel or flight + car hire together for the best deals
• 23kg checked baggage per person included
• 24-hour support helpline during your trip
• Low deposits from just £60pp
• Collect bonus Avios
• All our holiday packages are ATOL protected

Where are you flying from?

• London Heathrow
• Manchester International
• Inverness Airport
• Cardiff Airport
• Norwich Airport
• Humberside Airport
• London City Apt
• Belfast International
• Leeds Bradford Airport
• Bristol Airport
• Teesside Airport

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 22nd October 2023.

Please remember when searching for your holiday to add an additional night, as we operate an overnight service on our outbound flight.

i.e. For a 7 night holiday please search for 8 nights.

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 30th October 2023.

We will operate from London Heathrow four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 4 direct flights, will operate until the 19th May 2024.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 28th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

Flights include a short touchdown in Barbados.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal service will recommence on the 29th October 2024, with flights operating on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 3 direct flights, will operate until the 11th May 2024. Flights will commence from 23 May 2024 - 24th October 2024 on Thursdays and include a short touchdown.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 29th October 2024.

Daily direct flights from London Gatwick to New York with our partner airline, Delta, operates between 10th April and 26th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service with direct flights, will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays until the 30th March 2024.

Our direct service will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the 2nd April 2024.

1 room / 2 adults

Please enter all child ages

There must be 1 adult per child under two years of age travelling, please adjust your passenger number

To book online please select a maximum of 9 passengers, to book 10 adults or more please call 0344 557 3978

Please note: Drivers must be over the age of 21 to hire a car unless otherwise specified. Drivers between 21 and 24 years of age may be subject to additional costs.

Vancouver Tours

Sorry, we couldn't find any result for the dates you have selected.

You searched for Vancouver Tours

We have some options for you...

Are your dates flexible.

We may have availability on different dates.

Can we help?

Our sales centre staff are happy to talk through your options.

0344 472 9646

Browse our website

9am-7pm Mon-Fri / 9am-5pm Sat-Sun

• British Columbia
• Independent Tours

Vancouver Independent Tours

Independent tours give you the option to choose your activities for each day, whilst still having the comfort of knowing someone else will drive you to each destination. There is so much to experience in Vancouver, including discovering wildlife, trying out the latest restaurant openings, and even cycling.

Find your perfect tour

Searched destinations

Destinations

Holiday Types

Star Rating

Encounter BC - Vancouver, Whistler and Victoria by Float Plane

A unique way to experience British Columbia, visiting three of the most popular locations and travelling between by float plane. Contrast the laid-back city charms of Vancouver, with the spectacular mountain location of Whistler and the coastal beauty of Victoria, whilst staying in the renowned Fairmont hotels.

Encounter BC - Vancouver and Whistler

Contrast the laid-back city vibe of Vancouver with exhilarating outdoor pursuits in Whistler on this twin centre holiday. We can tailor the days spent in each place and the selection of hotels to suit you, or you may want to add a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer or perhaps an Alaskan cruise.

Experience Vancouver

Enjoy a stay in one of our favourite cities. Located on the edge of the ocean with the magnificent backdrop of mountains, Vancouver is a beautiful city to explore on foot or by bike. You could experience a float-plane trip or enjoy a whale & wildlife cruise

Vancouver and Victoria by Float Plane

A lovely luxurious holiday, combining Vancouver with Victoria. Stay in two beautiful Fairmont hotels and travel between the two by a float plane. With a couple of days in each location, you can really experience the best of these Canadian cities.

Encounter BC - Vancouver and Victoria

Experience the contemporary vibrancy of Vancouver and then travel to Vancouver island to enjoy the laid-back beauty of Victoria on this twin-centre holiday. Either enjoy this as a short break, or add onto a tour of the Rockies or a cruise to Alaska.

Celebrity Alaska Cruise & the Rockies by Rail

Start your journey in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver before you embark on an amazing Alaskan Cruise on Celebrity Cruises. After your cruise you have two more nights in Vancouver, two days on the Rocky Mountaineer and stays in Kamloops, Jasper and Banff.

Mountains To Sea Rail Passage

Travel through an ever-changing scenery of foothills & mountains, fjords & ice-floes, visiting Banff, Jasper, Vancouver and Victoria en route. Enjoy scenic train journeys on the VIA Rail "Skeena" train from Jasper to Prince Rupert and enjoy wildlife spotting on an Inside Passage day-cruise.

Mountain Rails and Northern Lights Adventure

• Yukon Territory

A superb independent tour incorporating several iconic experiences – journeying onboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train through the Canadian Rockies, exploring the spectacular national parks of Banff and Jasper, riding an Ice Explorer to the Athabasca Glacier, travelling to the Yukon wilderness to experience the Northern Lights.

Canadian Rockies at Leisure plus Rocky Mountaineer & Alaska Cruise

Take time to enjoy the best of the Canadian Rockies this leisurely independent tour, followed by an amazing seven night Alaska cruise with Holland America. Highlights include Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Parks, and cruising the Inside Passage.

Canadian Rockies at Leisure plus Rocky Mountaineer

• Lake Louise

A 10-day tour of the best of the Canadian Rockies, including a two-day journey on the famous Rocky Mountaineer. Tour the national parks of Banff & Jasper, plus Lake Louise & more. The tour ends Vancouver so you can add an Alaskan cruise if you wish.

• Escorted Tours
• Fly Drive & Self Drive
• Inspiration

Privacy Settings

We use cookies and similar methods to recognise visitors and remember their preferences. We also use them to measure ad campaign effectiveness, target ads and analyse site traffic. They activate only after you agree by selecting "Accept". Alternatively, you can decline or customise your preferences by choosing "Cookie Settings". Additional details are available on our privacy policy page .

Cookie Settings

Customize your cookie preferences:

Sign up for our exclusive offers and holiday inspiration by email.

Sign up to our newsletter

Be the first to know about our exclusive offers and holiday inspiration by email.

Mon-Fri: 0900 -1800 Sat: 0900 - 1700 Sun& BH: Closed

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

Expert Holiday Directors

60 years experience

Holiday Search

HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME, EVERY TIME

60 Years Expertise

Your Money is 100% Protected

Amazing Experiences

Safe Travels with Travelsphere

Spectacular Rockies & Vancouver

Javascript is disabled in your web browser. Some features will not work properly.

• Accommodation

Optional Excursions

A road trip from Calgary to Vancouver in western Canada is a holiday high on many a traveller’s wish list and this is our version of that incredible journey. Driving through the sensational scenery of Alberta and British Columbia, you’ll climb high into the Rocky Mountains and then travel through canyons and valleys on your way to the coast. Best of all, we take care of the driving so that you can simply sit back, take it all in and enjoy!

We’ve used our years of experience and in-depth knowledge of Canada to create this exciting itinerary. It takes in all the iconic sights and includes off-the-beaten-track treasures too. You’ll see the snow-capped peaks of Banff National Park and breathtaking jade-green waters of Lake Louise before heading north into Jasper National Park. Here, you’ll visit the mighty Columbia Icefield and spectacular Maligne Canyon and then there’s a treat in store for wildlife enthusiasts. You’re going to head off on a river safari through Grizzly Bear Valley on the lookout for, you guessed it, grizzly bears!

Ending with visits to the vibrant coastal cities of Victoria and Vancouver, this wonderful holiday has something for everyone. To make it even more amazing, you can add on a host of exciting experiences with our range of optional excursions.

Your Holiday Includes

• Return flights from London
• 10 nights in great quality hotels plus 1 night in flight
• 3 meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and welcome drink
• Travelsphere Holiday Director
• Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

Included Holiday Highlights

• Tour of Banff National Park
• Discover the beauty of Lake Louise
• Drive along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at the Columbia Icefield
• Visit Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park
• Rockies river safari on the Blue River
• Tour of Victoria, Vancouver Island
• Visit Butchart Gardens
• Vancouver city tour and Stanley Park

Day 1 UK - Calgary

Your exciting holiday begins with a flight to Calgary. When we arrive, we’ll drive to our hotel, where you’ll have time to relax after the journey and explore Calgary at leisure. We recommend you head up to the observation deck of the Calgary Tower, more than 150 metres above the city. On a bright day, you’ll enjoy incredible views as far as the Rocky Mountains, what a fantastic way to start your trip!

Later, we’ll get together for a welcome drink at the hotel.

Day 2 Calgary -Banff

This morning we will make our way to the town of Banff. On the way, we’ll pass through the spectacular scenery of the Rocky Mountains and tour Banff National Park, where staggering views appear at every turn. Snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, sparkling streams and swathes of forest are just some of the attractions in this stunning destination. The wildlife is equally as impressive too, so look out for black and grizzly bears, wolves, elk and deer on land, then keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks and ospreys in the sky.

When we arrive in Banff, you’ll have some free time to explore and have lunch if you wish. There's plenty to see and do here, you could perhaps take a scenic walk along the town’s trails or browse the shops for souvenirs. If you prefer organised sightseeing, we offer an optional ride by cable car to the top of Sulphur Mountain.

Day 3 Lake Louise

Our first stop today is at Johnston Canyon, where we’ll take a short walk to see the waterfalls. Then, it’s on to the breathtaking Lake Louise, a glacial, jade-green lake set high in the mountains. Surrounded by dramatic, soaring peaks, it is described as one of Canada's most beautiful locations, so be sure to have your camera ready. We’ll have plenty of time here and there are easy walking trails to explore if you want to appreciate the beauty of the lake from a different viewpoint. On the way back to the hotel, we’ll visit the awe-inspiring Moraine Lake and admire its stunning, turquoise-coloured water. Then, if you wish, you can end your time in Banff with one more unforgettable adventure. Why not take an optional helicopter flight over the Rockies for even more spectacular views!

Day 4 Banff - Jasper

At times, the Banff - Jasper Highway climbs to more than 2,000 metres above sea level, and the mountain ranges flanking it soar to more than 3,00 metres. Today, we're going to travel along this iconic route, known as the Icefields Parkway, pausing along the way to take in the views.

Before we arrive in Jasper, we're going to stop at the Great Columbia Icefield. Covering 89 square miles and with ice as deep as 365 metres, you’ll have free time to admire this breathtaking sight at leisure. If you’re up for an adventure, an optional Ice Explorer ride to the Athabasca Glacier is highly recommended. Travelling in a purpose-built, all-terrain vehicle, you’ll learn about the history of this ever-changing wonder and have an opportunity to walk on the 10,000-year-old sheet of ice.

Day 5 Jasper

A former railroad town, Jasper is now known for its breathtakingly beautiful national park. You're going to discover its incredible highlights today, including Maligne Lake, renowned for its spectacular azure waters and Maligne Canyon with its spectacular waterfalls and scenic bridges. Back in the town of Jasper we'll enjoy a lunch of distinctly Canadian produced before an afternoon at leisure – maybe by browsing the shops or sipping a locally brewed beer. Alternatively choose to join us on an optional excursions to take in the amazing scenery on an exhilarating Athabasca River rafting experience.

Day 6 Jasper - Kamloops

Our journey to Kamloops in British Columbia takes us over Yellow Head Pass, past Mount Robson – the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies – and along the Trans-Canada Highway. The scenery may be spectacular but the highlight of your day is sure to be our stop at Blue River for an exciting Rockies river safari. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise will take you through Grizzly Bear Valley on the lookout for an array of wildlife including moose, eagles, ospreys and, of course, grizzly bears.

Our overnight hotel in Kamloops has a convenient, downtown location, ideal if you want to head out for dinner this evening.

Day 7 Kamloops - Victoria

The ferry terminal is where we're heading this morning on a journey which takes us once again through the rugged scenery of the Rocky Mountains. Our ferry will take us to Vancouver Island and then we'll travel by road to Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia. This fabulous city is often said to resemble an old English town, with its narrow streets and grand buildings. We’ll get our bearings and see its highlights on a sightseeing tour when we arrive.

Day 8 Victoria - at Leisure

You can soak up Victoria's old-world charm at your own pace today as you explore at leisure. Maybe you’ll head to the renowned Royal BC Museum or visit one of the city’s craft breweries for a tasting. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you won’t want to miss today’s optional whale-watching excursion. The waters around Vancouver Island offer the ideal opportunity to get closer to the delights of the natural world and there's a chance you'll see orca, or killer whales, in their natural environment.

Day 9 Victoria - Vancouver

Later, we return to the mainland by ferry and travel by road to Vancouver. This city boasts an idyllic setting, where the ocean meets the mountains, and you'll see its highlights this afternoon. Your sightseeing tour will take you to the city's historic core, known as 'Gastown', and then on to bustling Chinatown and Stanley Park with its famous totem poles.

Our centrally located hotel is just steps away from some fabulous restaurants, so why not head out and see what’s on offer for dinner. Your Holiday Director will be happy to point you in the right direction if you would like a recommendation.

Day 10 Vancouver - at Leisure

It’s the last full day of your holiday and you’re free to do as you please in Vancouver. You could explore what culinary treats are on offer at Granville Island’s Public Market, check out a museum or head to one of the large shopping malls for some retail therapy.

Alternatively, if you'd like to join an optional excursion, come with us to Vancouver's North Shore. Here you'll see the spectacular Capilano Suspension Bridge and take a cable-car ride up Grouse Mountain. On a sunny day the views of the city, the snow-capped mountains of Washington State and Vancouver Island are simply breathtaking.

Day 11 Vancouver - UK

Enjoy a little more free time in Vancouver before we drive you to the airport for your flight home.

After an overnight flight, you'll arrive back in the UK today.

Additional Information

Accommodation (as specified or similar), hilton garden inn calgary downtown, rundlestone lodge, maligne lodge, sandman signature kamloops hotel, best western plus carlton plaza hotel, century plaza hotel.

Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional experiences to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour

Victoria - Whale Watching in Victoria

Banff - Athabasca Glacier

Vancouver - North Shore

Jasper - River Rafting

Banff Gondola

3 Sisters Peak Helicopter Flight

Personalise your trip.

Choose to extend your stay with an organised add-on. 

Spectacular Rockies & Vancouver with Vancouver extension

Favourite moment.

Experience breathtaking views of Maligne Lake with its azure blue waters and mountain backdrop, and the dramatic Maligne Canyon that carves through the landscape.

No departures found

Departures are unavailable at the moment. Please try again later.

Guided tour holidays you may also like

Canada's Eastern Splendours

Canada’s rich history and immense beauty are yours to discover on this tour of iconic cities and natural wonders.

• Return flights
• 10 nights great quality hotels plus 1 night in flight

Grand Tour of Canada & the Rocky Mountaineer

From east to west, this ultimate trip across Canada takes in all the must-see highlights and includes a breathtaking journey on the Rocky Mountaineer train.

• 15 nights in great quality hotels plus 1 night in flight
• 5 meals: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches

New England, Canada & New York in The Fall

Marvel at New England’s glorious fall foliage, explore iconic cities and see the spectacular Niagara Falls.

• 12 nights in great quality hotels plus 1 night in flight

Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.

Reasons to Book with Travelsphere

100% Protection

All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected via ATOL (flight-inclusive holidays) and financial insurance (non-flight packages). Additionally, all customer money is held in a Trust Fund, governed by independent Trustees. This means your money is 100% protected no matter what.

Holidays in Vancouver

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for holiday package deals in vancouver.

Let KAYAK do the searching

Save on your next holiday

Search and compare hundred of travel sites at once for holiday packages in Vancouver

We’re completely free to use - No hidden charges or fees

Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more

ATOL Protected: All packages are ATOL protected

Cheap Vancouver package deals

Most popular vancouver flight and hotel deals, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a holiday in vancouver, tips for finding cheap holiday packages vancouver.

• There are loads of types of holidays in Vancouver and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travellers: Top holiday £493; Family holiday £424; Romantic holiday £537; Luxury holiday £539; Budget holiday £345.

Why should you book a holiday package to Vancouver?

When you visit British Columbia's biggest city, it's well worth considering a package holiday. With the right package you can find top-quality accommodation, add in flights and car hire, and have money left over to tour the eateries of Gastown without pinching pennies.

When should you book a holiday package to Vancouver?

Vancouver's shoulder seasons are probably the best time to go. Between March and May, and September to early November, the Canadian winter is far away, and you'll come across some great accommodation deals. Then again, winter is a good time to combine a city break with Alpine activities.

Where should you stay in Vancouver during your holidays?

For any holiday type in vancouver:.

If you want a hotel that covers every base, the Pan Pacific fits the bill. Located on the city's waterfront, it has fine views and access to the city center, three upscale restaurants and a cutting edge gym. You can get there from Vancouver Airport in 20 mins by taxi.

The Four Seasons is another all-rounder with appeal to families, business travelers and couples alike. Located in Vancouver's Downtown, it has a superb seafood eatery and high-ceilinged rooms, as well as stunning views of the mountains. Private airport transfers are available and should take 30 mins.

For family holidays in Vancouver:

Families will find everything they need at the Westin Wall Centre. Conveniently located for airport arrivals on Corvette Way, it's a pet-friendly place with an indoor heated pool - ideal for relaxing after a day of sight-seeing. The hotel's shuttle leaves the airport every 30 mins.

The Comfort Inn is ideal for a Downtown family experience. Close to attractions like Vancouver Art Gallery and in the center of the Entertainment District, it's perfectly located. Just take the Canada Line Skytrain from the airport and you'll be on the hotel's doorstep in 30 mins.

For romantic holidays in Vancouver:

If you need a romantic hotel which mixes privacy, luxury and comfort, the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is tough to beat. This Hornby Street favorite has a Downtown location and - unusually for the center of town - every room has a private balcony. Spa facilities, a gym and the culinary delights of the Bacchus Restaurant round things off nicely. The Skytrain also whizzes visitors into town in 30 mins.

Sutton Place is another central gem. Kitted out in a European style, this upscale hotel boasts an oyster bar and spa, but little touches like hand-made tapestries seal the deal. That, and the fact that it's a few meters from Burrard, Granville and City Centre Metro stations.

For luxury holidays in Vancouver:

Luxury is evident everywhere you look at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, an elegant, centrally located hotel which has been skillfully restored to its 1930s splendor. A wellness center, numerous dining options and the Rose Buds kids club adds plenty of features that modern travelers will appreciate. It's 25 mins from the airport via the Skytrain.

The Executive Hotel Le Soleil is another outstanding luxury option. Handily located for venues like the Rogers Arena, the Le Soleil features 42-inch TVs in every room and delicious Indian cooking at the Copper Chimney Restaurant. It's 29 mins from the airport via the Skytrain.

For budget holidays in Vancouver:

The Budget Inn Patricia Hotel lets you save money without skimping on comfort. Situated on the edge of Downtown, the hotel has a lively Brewhouse on-site, and gets the basics right with well-furnished, spacious rooms. Taxis from the airport take around 20 mins.

Another low-price, high-quality option is the Greenbrier Hotel. Around 3 miles outside the Downtown core, many rooms have jaw-dropping mountain views and all come with a stovetop, which self-caterers may find handy. Even better, it's just 10 mins from the airport by road.

Where to stay in Vancouver

Vancouver holiday information, other popular package holiday destinations.

• Dublin package holidays
• Montego Bay package holidays
• Copenhagen package holidays
• Venice package holidays
• Berlin package holidays
• Abu Dhabi package holidays
• Myrtle Beach package holidays
• Key West package holidays
• Orlando package holidays
• Caribbean package holidays
• Toronto package holidays
• Montreal package holidays
• Fredericton package holidays
• Calgary package holidays
• Whistler package holidays
• Niagara Falls package holidays
• Banff package holidays
• Halifax package holidays
• Ottawa package holidays
• Richmond package holidays

THE 10 BEST Vancouver Tours & Excursions

Vancouver tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

2. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

3. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

4. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

5. Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

6. Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour

7. Vancouver Seaplane Tour

8. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

9. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour

10. Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

11. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

12. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

13. Vancouver Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

14. Granite Falls Zodiac Tour by Vancouver Water Adventures

15. Epic Electric Bike by Cycle City Tours

16. Small Group Tour: Vancouver Sightseeing and Capilano Suspension Bridge

17. Small Group Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

18. Post-cruise: Vancouver Tour with Lookout & Capilano Bridge

19. 6-Hour Private Tour in Lynn Canyon and Deep Cove with Pickup

20. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

21. Vancouver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

22. Seaplane Tour with Admission to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

23. VIP Access Granville Island Market Walking Food Tour

24. Vancouver City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

25. Vancouver Rainforest Hike with Waterfalls, Suspension Bridge, Old Growth Forest

26. Shore Excursion: Post-Cruise Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour with Port Pick Up

27. The Grand Tour by Cycle City Tours

28. A Wok Around Chinatown: Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour Led by a Chef

29. Flyover in Vancouver

30. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

What travelers are saying.

• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Vancouver Seaplane Tour
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver
• Stanley Park Train
• Sea Vancouver
• Cycle City Vancouver
• Vancouver Foodie Tours
• Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours
• Talaysay Tours
• Discover Canada Tours
• Toonie Tours Vancouver
• Bee’s Knees eBike Tours and Rentals
• Vancouver Water Adventures
• Vancouver DeTours
• Ghostly Vancouver Tours
• Lang's Fishing Adventures
• Sturgeon Slayers Luxury Guided Fishing

Holidays To Vancouver Island

There is no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists

A mecca of untouched scenery and outdoor adventure awaits you on a Vancouver Island holiday. Here, you’ll find bears roaming free, whales swimming off the island’s coast, and quaint cities and coastal towns nestled amongst forests, waterfalls, tree-lined coves, beaches and mountains.

There’s so much to be explored and many gems that just can’t be missed on a Vancouver Island holiday . Visit Tofino , a town that sits on the tip of a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by the sea and enveloped by untouched nature. Nearby lies the Pacific Rim National Park , made up of three units. Witness the kayakers, sand castle builders, surfers and walkers unite at Long Beach. Take to the West Coast Trail, a long backpacking trail where some of nature’s wonders offer stretches of challenging terrain. Or why not explore the stunning Broken Group Islands, with over 100 islands and islets?

Victoria: The Gateway to Vancouver Island

Victoria’s old English charm calls you to stick around long after your boat or seaplane has touched down in Victoria Harbour. Take some time to soak up the city’s many gems, from the bustling Inner Harbour, the heart of downtown Victoria, to the stunning Butchart Gardens. Wander along The Causeway, a walkway along the harbour lined with the palace-like B.C. Parliament Buildings. Head around the corner and find the floating houses of  Fisherman’s Wharf that are just waiting to be explored.

For a touch of Victorian grandeur, visit Craigdarroch Castle and discover the history of the Scottish Dunsmuir family who built it in the 1800’s.

A multi-centre holiday is the perfect way to explore Vancouver Island; visit Victoria and Tofino and make the most of the island’s abundant nature. If you want to discover more of British Columbia, head to the bright lights and city parks of Vancouver, or take to the mountains in Whistler. 

Destination Highlights

Explore Victoria, the historic capital city of British Columbia by bike

Try whale-watching and take in the majestic sights

Take a bear-watching tour to see black and grizzly bears in their natural habitat

Visit the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve’s three units: Long Beach, Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail

Great sample itineraries

Get inspired by our selection of popular itineraries for Vancouver Island holidays. With so many options for your Vancouver Islandholiday package, we recommend you talk to one of our Destination Specialists to make the perfect tailor-made holiday just for you.

Campbell River and Victoria Multi Centre

• from £1,499 PP

Our favorite hotels

Our favourite places to stay are below. We know everyone is different, so if you can’t see something you like, we’d be more than happy to help.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

The Oswego Hotel

Painter's Lodge

Black Rock Ocean Front Resort

Expert tips.

“One of the most memorable ways to reach Vancouver Island is by seaplane from Vancouver, as the views are incredible. If you prefer to travel over water, combine your ferry transfer with a whale-watching excursion.”

“Tofino and Ucluelet are the perfect places to surf, enjoy the unspoilt beaches and, the highlight, go bear-watching”

Our Vancouver Island destinations

Types of Vancouver Island holidays

Vancouver Island Self Drive Tours

You might also like these.

We think you might also like to take a look at these destinations. If you’d like some advice, our Destination Specialists will be able to find something that is right for you.

South Africa

Let's Chat

We have answers to all your questions. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists

Sign up for our newsletter

Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.

Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday

Look through our website for inspiration, then call our Travel Consultants

Discuss your wish list with us, and we'll use our knowledge to design a unique itinerary for you

3. Customise

We're committed to refining your itinerary until we've created the perfect personalised trip for you

The Hayes & Jarvis Way

Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.

Passionate Experts

Like you, we love to travel and explore. Over the years, we've honed our skills to create the most authentic travel experiences for you.

Personalised Journeys

We tailor each itinerary specifically for you. Tell us your travel dreams, and we'll work together to create a perfect trip for you.

Safety & Reliability

We ensure a hassle-free and safe experience with reliable partners. We provide you with a travel concierge dedicated to helping you 24/7 during your trip.

Fully Protected

You and your holiday are in safe hands with us so you can book with confidence and travel worry-free.

Your info is secure and never shared with 3rd parties. For full details regarding your data including digital marketing please read our Privacy Policy here . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Vancouver Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Vancouver. We've got 449 adventures going to Vancouver, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 96 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

Filters applied

250+ vancouver tour packages with 9,128 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

3 Days Vancouver-Victoria, Duncan, Chemainus, Nanaimo Private Tour

Our Tour guide was pleasant and knowledgeable. He went over and beyond to accommodate our travels.

• Coach / Bus

Rockies Classic Summer Tour

A very nice tour and very pleasant guide Ryan.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Hiking & Trekking

We had 8 fantastic days with Lee. He is a perfect guide with a lot of fun. Every Day was special and we enjoyed it a lot since the first second. Thank you - the selfie sisters !

Vancouver-Whistler-Victoria 2 Days Private Family Tour

Appreciate that there was a lot of ground to cover and things to see but felt it was a bit rushed. The last day was a bit disappointing as we did not have much time in Jasper and the hotel that we stayed in was in the middle of nowhere. The breakfast was not up to standard, paper plates and plastic knives and forks was unacceptable. The two previous hotels were in good locations.

Rockies Premium Tour from Vancouver (34 Seats)

Five days of active sightseeing and activities. Jaw dropping mountain scenery. Excellent walks. Will & Simon were personable and accommodating of everyones needs and setup a warm and friendly tone. Hotel accommodation and meals were excellent overall. We have no hesitation recommendation this tour. Ross & Di Smith

Canadian Rockies: National Parks Westbound

It was the best tour ever and had so much fun the tour guide Matthew Polowyk was this best guide ever so much fun and providing info at every place we went he also cooked great food

Active West Coast Canada Discovery

The sites are amazing and the paddleboarding and kayaking trips were amazing! Terrance is a great guide. The locals are kind and easy to talk to.

Canada's Rockies (Base, 8 Days)

Top notch treatment. Very accommodating. Meals were very good to excellent. Gave us some options when a few excursions were rained out. Guide took time to get to know you on a personal level.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Train & Rail

Via Railway Experience｜5-Day Vancouver to Rockies Railway Full Experience Tour Departure

We enjoyed our tour very much, the sights were beautiful, staff we well informed. A highlight for us was the optional evening photographic tour. The only thing stopping me from giving five stars was the last day felt very rushed, especially at the Banff gondola as the queue to get on took half an hour and not enough time allocated to our lunch at the Lake Louise Chateau, we had to ask the waitress to bring out the dessert while we were eating the main as we only had 15 minutes until the bus left. Allocate a bit more time for those things and you will get five stars.

Canadian Rockies

Very nice trip in the Canadian Rockies!! The itinerary was perfect!! The places seen are beautiful. It was an amazing experience

Wonders of the Canadian Rockies (10 Days) (7 destinations)

Great trip Thank you Dave and Jeremy

Heart of the Canadian Rockies

I had Ken as the Tour Director and Heather as the Bus driver. They were both incredibly lovely, as a 21 year old travelling for the first time alone they were very kind and looked out for me. Ken was incredibly knowledgeable and willing to answer any question thrown at him and they both very obviously loved their job and what they did

• Northern Lights

Aurora Borealis Adventure from Vancouver

I had a wonderful time and the tour company was very well organized and friendly. I would definitely use them again.

What people love about Vancouver Tours

I have a great time! Ben is our tour guide, he’s such a great fun, knowledgeable, friendly person. He made sure everyone comfortable, safe, and ready to answer any questions we have during the tour. I did group tour before, I can tell Ben is one of the best.

Great tour with amazing sights and wildlife; however, be aware of a lot of driving the first two days on the way to banff and on the last two days back to Vancouver. Furthermore the itinerary should be updated as there where some changes as to the description.

Tours starting from Vancouver

• for 7 Days (38)
• for 3 Days (35)
• for 3 Weeks (33)
• for 2 Weeks (32)
• for 10 Days (21)
• to North America (163)
• to Canada (148)
• Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Stargazing Tours & Trips 2024

Members save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide when you’re signed in

Vancouver travel guide.

Visit Vancouver

Vancouver travel guide video, this thriving pacific northwest city offers an alluring mix of cosmopolitan culture, an excellent restaurant scene and craft beer bars as well as wonderful natural scenery..

With its sophisticated urban center, coastline of sandy beaches and surrounding forested mountains, Vancouver appeals to visitors seeking big-city entertainment and outdoor pursuits. Explore neighborhoods filled with artsy shops, multicultural restaurants and historic architecture. Cycle through a scenic park, enjoy an invigorating hike and relax on a beach.

Take your time discovering Vancouver’s diverse neighborhoods. Window shop along Robson Street, which features a variety of mid-range shops as well as luxury retailers like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. Head to Gastown to admire historic architecture and dine in some of the city’s top restaurants. Take photos of Chinatown’s famous Millennium Gate and then stroll through the exquisite Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden.

No visit to Vancouver would be complete without a stop in Stanley Park, a 1,000-acre (405-hectare) expanse of semi-wild parkland. Walk, bike or jog along the Seawall, which runs along the park’s coastline, offering lovely views of the city and the Lions Gate Bridge. Head to English Bay Beach on the edge of the park for swimming and sunbathing.

Grouse Mountain, located north of downtown, is another favorite destination for visitors interested in getting active. It offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in the winter and picturesque hiking in the summer.

Explore the city’s cultural side with a visit to the Museum of Anthropology, home to an exceptional collection of Northwest Coast First Nations’ art. View the exhibitions of Canadian and West Coast art housed at the Vancouver Art Gallery, including notable works by modernist painter Emily Carr.

Take the ferry across False Creek to visit Granville Island. Browse fresh produce, seafood, meats and baked goods at the Granville Island Public Market.

Most visitors arrive at the city by plane at Vancouver International Airport. Vancouver is also well connected by bus and train to most major Canadian cities, as well as by bus to the U.S. Get around easily within the city on its extensive public transportation system, which includes electric trolley and diesel buses, the light-rail SkyTrain and the SeaBus ferry.

Where to stay in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver

Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal and BC Place Stadium are a few top attractions in Downtown Vancouver. Hop around the city on the metro at Vancouver City Center Station or Granville Station and check out the area's captivating waterfront views, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.

Central Vancouver

If you're spending time in Central Vancouver, check out sights like Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal or Port of Vancouver and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Granville Station or Vancouver City Center Station.

While you're in West Side, take in top sights like VanDusen Botanical Garden or Kitsilano Beach, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at King Edward Station or Oakridge-41st Avenue Station.

East Vancouver

While you're in East Vancouver, take in top sights like Port of Vancouver or Commercial Drive, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Nanaimo Station or 29th Avenue Station.

The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of West End. Make a stop by Stanley Park or Robson Street while you're exploring the area.

Kitsilano is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Kitsilano Beach and False Creek.

• Top hotels in Vancouver
• Top Holiday Rentals in Vancouver

Reviewed on 12 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 11 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 10 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 8 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 6 Apr 2024

Check Vancouver hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Vancouver with a trip to Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.

• Canada Place

Fly above Canada’s stunning scenery aboard a flight simulator and watch a movie in the open-air cinema at this expansive entertainment complex.

• Stanley Park

Check out this local favorite since Victorian times for its forested walking trails, beachside activities, attractive gardens and wildlife.

University of British Columbia

Enjoy the student vibe with a visit to University of British Columbia, a top university in Vancouver. Discover the beautiful sunsets and shops in this vibrant area.

Vancouver Waterfront

Explore the waterfront in Vancouver with a trip to Vancouver Waterfront. Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in this vibrant area.

• Rogers Arena

Catch an event at Rogers Arena during your trip to Vancouver. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.

Things to do

Capilano suspension bridge park & vancouver city tour, victoria & butchart gardens tour from vancouver, whistler adventure & sea to sky gondola tour, reviews of vancouver, 5/5 - excellent.

My wife and I particularly enjoy Stanley Park

Amazing city! You can walk everywhere, great food options. Would recommend to anyone

The Aquarium was great (3 adults spent 4 hours there) and i also enjoyed the normal/space museum. There are plenty of places to eat and lots of variety too. Capilano suspension bridge is my must see recomendation

Great place for a short or long holiday, public transport is efficient and cheap

A really welcoming city

Amazing city.

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Vancouver

A vancouver fitness break itinerary.

• Cities near Vancouver

Port Coquitlam

Other places like Vancouver

• Places of interest
• Richmond Night Market
• Granville Island Public Market
• Hard Rock Casino Vancouver
• CF Richmond Centre Mall
• Queen Elizabeth Park

Top Tours in Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

2. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

3. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

4. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

5. Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

6. Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour

7. Vancouver Seaplane Tour

8. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

9. 3 Hour Kayak in Vancouver with Coffee on the Beach

10. Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

11. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

12. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

13. Vancouver Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

14. Granite Falls Zodiac Tour by Vancouver Water Adventures

15. Epic Electric Bike by Cycle City Tours

16. Husky Hikes Private Mountain Tours

17. Small Group Tour: Vancouver Sightseeing and Capilano Suspension Bridge

18. Small Group Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

19. Post-cruise: Vancouver Tour with Lookout & Capilano Bridge

20. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

21. Vancouver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

22. Seaplane Tour with Admission to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

23. VIP Access Granville Island Market Walking Food Tour

24. Vancouver City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

25. Vancouver Rainforest Hike with Waterfalls, Suspension Bridge, Old Growth Forest

26. Shore Excursion: Post-Cruise Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour with Port Pick Up

27. The Grand Tour by Cycle City Tours

28. A Wok Around Chinatown: Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour Led by a Chef

29. Flyover in Vancouver

30. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

What travellers are saying.

• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Vancouver Seaplane Tour
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver
• Stanley Park Train
• Sea Vancouver
• Cycle City Vancouver
• Vancouver Foodie Tours
• Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours
• Talaysay Tours
• Discover Canada Tours
• Toonie Tours Vancouver
• Bee’s Knees eBike Tours and Rentals
• Vancouver Water Adventures
• Vancouver DeTours
• Ghostly Vancouver Tours
• Lang's Fishing Adventures
• Sturgeon Slayers Luxury Guided Fishing

Vancouver Travel Guides

Having lived in downtown Vancouver for 6 years, we know our stuff and I’ve shared so much of what we got up to on this Vancouver trave blog.

If you’re visiting Vancouver, have just moved here or are a local looking for something new to do, you’re sure to find it in one of our free Vancouver travel guides.

These Vancouver blogs include the best things to do, guided hiking tours in Vancouver , where to stay and eat or drink and information on the different districts. I also cover the pros and cons of owning a car in Vancouver to help you decide whether it’s worth it.

Have a question? Feel free to reach out to us and we’ll get back to you.

Wondering what it’s like to live in Vancouver? Check out my guide to the 27 pros and cons of living in Vancouver. This will help you answer questions about how expensive is it to live in Vancouver, or what are the traffic, nightlife and schools like in Vancouver.

Looking for the best 1 day in Vancouver itinerary? I’ve pulled together Vancouver’s best attractions to make the best day trip in Vancouver itinerary.

G A S T O W N

Gastown is the oldest Vancouver neighbourhood. It’s home to cobbled streets, the Gastown Steam Clock, cute stores and some delicious restaurants. If you only have one day in Vancouver, make sure to visit Gastown!

Y A L E T O W N

If one side of Vancouver is all outdoor adventure, then Yaletown is the other side. It’s the botox, nails, spas, spin classes and pilates side. If you’re looking for a bar to grab a few drinks at a rooftop bar in Vancouver , or some delicious food close to downtown, then Yaletown is the place to be. This is also where the nickname for Vancouver , ‘city of glass’, comes from.

K I T S I L A N O

Kitsilano was the only area I’d heard of when we first arrived in Vancouver. It’s home to beautiful sandy beaches, great shopping and a chilled-out, relaxed vibe. Oh, and what seems like half of Ireland!

W E S T E N D

I’m a firm believer that this is the best neighbourhood in downtown Vancouver. This is where we lived throughout our time in Vancouver . We loved being just 1 block from the beach, but also stores and a quick 10-minute cycle to downtown or Stanley Park.

In the West End you’re in the middle of downtown but get peace and quiet too.

M A I N S T R E E T

If you’re a hipster you’re going to love Main Street. Main Street is where you’ll find cool independent coffee shops and boutiques, a lot of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants and a tonne of local breweries and some of the best croissants in Vancouver.

G R A N V I L L E I S L A N D

Granville Island is a must if you’re visiting Vancouver for the first time. The food market sells a plethora of tasty vegetables, fruits, meats, seafood, sweet treats and more. Plus, there’s a great art scene with comedy and theatre and often live music in the summer. Check out these Vancouver guides to the (not really an island) island.

• Best places for Hornby Island camping

• How much does it cost to travel Canada for one month? My spend breakdown.

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning escorted tours on virtually every continent with local favourites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

is Knocking

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

Here's how to get a tax extension from the IRS in 2024

Severe weather, flooding, suspected tornadoes hit Southeast

Truck plows into Texas DPS office in "intentional" act, killing 1, officials say

TSA found more than 1,500 guns at airport checkpoints in 1st quarter of 2024