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Vancouver Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Now, It's Your Turn

Learn these Vancouver travel tips then put them to use by doing some of the things we recommend in our Vancouver travel blog , including the best neighborhoods to explore and stay in , unique restaurants , non-touristy things to do , and true must-dos .

Kim and I grew up here, worked in tourism (Kim in restaurants, me as a hostel owner), and hosted hundreds of Airbnb guests in our second bedroom (…before we were forced to leave ) , so we've helped a lot of people with a lot of questions about Vancouver.

And now it's your turn!

Here are the top Vancouver travel tips.

Vancouver Travel Tips Outline

• Things to Do
• Getting Around

Food and Drink

Cultural tips, our favorites, top 9 vancouver travel tips.

1. Don't worry about the rain

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

It does rains frequently during all other months, but almost never so hard that you can't enjoy the outdoors. A good drizzle can even add to the rainforest ambiance.

2. Don't rent a car

Vancouver is tiny, difficult and expensive to park in, and easy to get around by foot, bike, or public transit, so you don't need a car.

3. Look to stay around Burrard and Robson  

The area around Burrard and Robson streets the most convenient location for most visitors.

If you have a bigger budget, just look for the best deal in the area and if you're on a tight budget, look to stay in the West End, near Davie St. somewhere between Burrard and Denman.

Check out our Where to Stay in Vancouver Guide , where we share and score the best neighborhoods in the city, for more info.

4. Know that you're safe everywhere but your stuff isn't

There is no unsafe part of the city, no matter at what point of day or night.

Never leave any personal items unguarded or unlocked in Vancouver, though, because they aren't safe anywhere. There is a large underworld of thieves who prowl the city waiting for the chance to grab anything that's not properly protected.

5. Don't just say "Thank you"

In Vancouver, and across Canada, you're expected to tip for hotel services ($1-2 per bag to the bell boy, $2-5 per night for the maid, $10-20 to a helpful concierge), at restaurants (15-20%), at bars ($0.50-2 per drink), spas and beauticians/barbers (10%), and taxi drivers (10%).

For more guidance on this silly but unavoidable tradition of tipping, check out this TripSavvy post .

6. Go to a dining district

Instead of trying to decide on a restaurant online, head to one of Vancouver's dining districts like Gastown, Main Street, or Alexandra Road and follow your nose (or taste buds) once you get there.

For a list and map of our favorite dining districts, see our Vancouver travel guide , where Kim and I answer the 11 questions everyone needs to know the answer to before visiting.

7. Just wear something

Vancouver is possibly the world's least-stylish city. People often wear whatever they feel like in public. You can fit in by doing the same.

Or go to Wreck Beach, one of Chris' favorite beaches in Vancouver , and wear nothing at all!

8. Plan to explore Can-Asia

Many guests we've hosted thought they'd landed in the wrong continent when they got to the airport because Vancouver is the world's most Asian city outside of Asia . Forty-seven percent of its population is of Asian descent.

This Asian-ness is a huge part of our culture, so plan to explore it (especially the food) as part of your trip.

9. Know that Vancouver is tiny

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

To walk from one extreme corner of downtown to the other only takes forty minutes. And it's mostly flat. So if you're in the middle of downtown (like we recommended in tip #3), nothing is more than an easy twenty-minute walk away.

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

More of our best travel tips (for wherever you go)

You're sure to find at least one idea that will change the way you travel in our list of our best travel tips and tricks . It has everything from advanced, experimental travel tips and tricks to practical but oft-overlooked ones to dumb advice we hear others give too often (and what to do instead).

Tips on Things to Do

✅ take advantage of the free wifi.

Save on roaming fees and enjoy free internet throughout the city by connecting to any of the 550 (and counting) #VanWifi hotspots. 

Here's the map :

❌  Don't miss the grizzlies

 If you're visiting Vancouver in the summer, we highly recommend you go up Grouse Mountain .

And when you do, don't make the same mistake as too many of our guests did and miss the grizzly bears. It is really cool to see them up close (…through the protection of a fence.)

To get to the grizzly enclosure from behind the main building up top, all you have to do is follow the paw prints on the sidewalk.

( Bonus tip: Definitely hike up Grouse if you can, but strongly consider taking a less-busy route like the BCMC instead. Our Vancouver must-dos post has more info on this.)

✅ Avoid the Seawall on peak periods

The Seawall gets insanely busy with people who haven't ridden a bike since they learned how and can be unnecessarily frustrating and slow, so avoid going on weekends (unless you go early) and in the middle of any day when it's nice out.

✅ Check out the other suspension bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge is cool and all, but it's super expensive ($50!) and insanely busy.

We recommend  Lynn Canyon instead. It's not quite as busy, not as built up, and it's free .

❌  Don't be fooled by  Gastown marketing

Gastown isn't as old as they want you to believe.

The buildings date back to the late 1800s and early 1900 but the famous steam clock only dates back to 1977. It was put there to attract tourists to Gastown after they revitalized the area.

The same goes for the cobbled streets and the old-looking-but-actually-new lamps. And claims that "Blood Alley" is named after butcher shops aren't true ; it was given its name and legend purely to attract more tourists.

✅ Try stand up paddle boarding

You get two birds with one stone by stand-up paddle boarding: exercise and an unforgettable view of the city.

In the summer, go to Kits Beach on Monday for half-priced rentals ($10/hour, the $5 every hour after), two-for-one Tuesdays, or 30% off Wednesdays.

✅ Take the plunge

The ocean water is clean and not even that cold, especially when the tide is out in the summer. Jump in.

If you're in Vancouver over New Years, join 2,500+ others in the annual Polar Bear Swim .

✅ Join in on some free exercise

You'll be impressed by how active Vancouverites are. It will likely motivate you to join and fit in .

For doing so, there are tons of options, many of which are free. Most yoga, spinning, or whatever style of fitness is in style these days studios offer free or steeply discounted first classes.

We like to go to  Vancouver's outdoor calisthenics parks  and do  rock workouts on Sunset Beach.

❌  Don't sleep on Squamish

Squamish is halfway between Vancouver and Whistler (an hour away) and is where all the young outdoorsy people in Vancouver are migrating to.  

If you're an adventure traveler looking to get into the outdoors and meet a bunch of like-minded adventurers, consider spending some time there .

✅ Shop for souvenirs at these places

Roots , Lululemon, and Aritzia are Canadian brands whose clothes make for practical souvenirs.

Kitschy souvenirs are most easily found in Gastown.

Get maple syrup or packaged smoked salmon from a supermarket instead of a souvenir shop to save money.

Geography Tips

✅ Use the north star mountains to guide you

 If you get spun around and forget which way's which, use the mountains to find your bearings. That way's north.

✅ Beware of the Downtown Eastside

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

It's where all the city's, and really much of Canada's, drug addicts and untreated mentally ill people are concentrated.

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

❌ Don't be scared of the Downtown Eastside, though

The Downtown Eastside is heavily policed and totally safe.

In fact, we recommend walking through it once to experience the gritty underbelly of beautiful Vancouver.

Bonus fun fact: The term skid row, which now refers to an impoverished urban area, originates from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. In Vancouver's early days, that's where they once skidded (or dragged) logs.

✅ For the real Chinatown, go to Richmond

Chinatown is not Chinatown. Not anymore. The epicenter of the Chinese community has moved south to Richmond (by the airport).

What was once Chinatown now has more hipster cafes and shops than Chinese stores.

❌  Don't do a day trip to Vancouver Island

We're amazed by how many visitors think Vancouver Island and everything on it is super close to Vancouver.

It takes a good five hours to get to Victoria from Vancouver, for example.

One or two visitors we met pulled off a day trip nonetheless, but that's crazy. If you want to go to Victoria or Vancouver Island, go for a few days. Or fly.

P.S: Don't miss our free Vancouver Treasure Map below.

Getting Around Vancouver

✅ Take the SkyTrain into town from the airport

It's sometimes faster than taxis and cheaper (unless you're a group of three or more, in which case a taxi costs about the same).

✅ Use public transit

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

It's the opposite here in Vancouver.

Everyone rides public transit in Vancouver and you should too.

✅ Ask the bus drivers, even if you're not taking the bus

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

✅ Move swiftly around Vancouver

For tips on how to zip around the city faster, for less money, and with less stress, head over to our Dos and Don'ts for Getting Around Vancouver .

❌  Don't get your hopes up about "Canadian " food

There isn't such a thing as "Canadian cuisine," especially in Vancouver. Reflecting Vancouver?s immigrant population, the city?s food is just a hodgepodge of cuisines from around the world.

Nevertheless, there are some foods here in Vancouver that you'll have a tough time finding outside of Canada. Among them are  Nanaimo bars ,  Caesars ,  poutine , and Aboriginal cuisine, which our  must-do in Vancouver  post explains in more detail.

✅ Bring ID

No matter how old you are, if you want to drink alcohol or smoke, ensure you carry one piece of picture ID and another with your name on it (like a credit card). Everyone checks. Without ID, you're outta luck.

✅ Experience some one-of-a-kind Vancouver dining

For our recommendations on unique and unforgettable food experiences like subs from the Sandwich Nazi and crazy bubble tea, don't miss our post on only-in-Vancouver dining experiences .

✅ Learn these Vancouver foodie dos and don'ts

Learn what, where, and how to best indulge in all of Vancouver's tastiest treats in our Dos and Don'ts for Foodies Visiting Vancouver .

✅ Be Green

Being so close to nature and the home of David Suzuki  and Greenpeace has made us Vancouverites very environmentally sensitive. You should be too, at the very least while you're here.

If you have empty bottles or glasses, look for a recycling bin to put them in. And only get bags from stores if you really need them.

✅ Please don't use an umbrella

Most Vancouverites wear rain jackets instead of carry umbrellas. Or they don't use any rain protection because, as we said before, it rarely rains that hard.

( Note:  Not all Vancouverites agree with this tip, but some, especially taller ones like Chris, will hate you for threatening their eyeballs with umbrellas.)

✅ Don't worry about standing out as a tourist

Vancouver is such a multicultural city that regardless of your accent, skin color, fashion, or whatever, as long as you don't have a big camera around your neck and an "I ♥ VanCity" hat on, nobody will think you're a tourist.

❌  Don't call them "Indians"

…unless they're actually from India.

Refer to the area's original inhabitants as Aboriginal people or First Nations people instead. Spencer helpfully elaborates in the comments, "Not all of Indigenous people in Vancouver or Canada for that matter identify as First Nations. Inuit people from the north and Metis (mixed Indigenous and French or Scottish ancestry) people also live in Vancouver. More specifically, individual Indigenous nations make up the land that is now called Vancouver. The Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples."

If you're interested in indigenous history and culture, go to The Museum of Anthropology , eat at Salmon n' Bannock , and take a tour with Talaysay .

✅ Beware that things cost more than they appear

Listed prices never include tax, which is normally an extra 14%. On top of that is the tip you're expected to pay at restaurants and bars and for other services. (See tip on tipping.)

✅ Favorite sites for more Vancouver travel tips, info, and events

Aside from reading our other posts on The Unconventional Route and asking us questions in the comments , here are some other handy resources for planning your trip:

• Tourism Vancouver's info sheets they share with media are better than anything the media then shares with the public.
• The Daily Hive is a good resource for seeing what events are going on in the city today.

✅ Essential guide

• Everything a first-time visitor should know before coming to Vancouver

✅ Favorite things to do

• Our favorite non-touristy things to do in Vancouver
• 7 things everyone must do in Vancouver in the summer
• A local beach bum's guide to all the beaches in Vancouver , the (sometimes) best beach city in the world

✅ A couple of our favorite hikes

• Going up Grouse Mountain, though not the Grind
• Anvil Island's Leading Peak
• Brandywine Meadows and Mountain

✅ Favorite foods

• 8 only-in-Vancouver dining experience
• General dos and don'ts for doodies visiting Vancouver

Read This Next:

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods, Ranked

11 Essentials for Visiting Our Hometown – A Vancouver Travel Blog

Travel Tips and Tricks: At Least One Will Enhance Your Trip

Vancouver Must-Dos: 7 Things You Honestly Can't Miss Out On

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

17 thoughts on “Vancouver Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go”

Thanks for the guide. I a planning to visit Vancouver next year with my wife.

You're more than welcome. Thanks for the comment. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you guys have any questions we haven't thought of addressing. And, if not, bon voyage!

You had me at everything is biking distance. I was calculating costs, and renting a vehicle is always so expensive.

Absolutely. Not only is biking cheaper, but it's often faster cuz you don't have to worry about parking and you get a better feel for the city when you're peddling along. And if the weather gets crappy you can easily throw your bike onto a bus.

Thanks for the info! It's a great help for first time visitors like us! We're hoping to head to Vancouver to visit friends their in June, then head out to the mountains and end in Calgary to fly home. Do you have any road trip tips for first time international drivers?!

Apologies, I definitely meant 'there' not 'their'!!

Hey Rosie. Hmm… Well you should know that in Canada it's legal to turn right on a red light, or left of its onto a one way street going that direction. In cities the speed limit is 50km/h unless otherwise indicated. Flashing green lights mean they're pedestrian operated (it will only change if a pedestrian pushes a button). And when lanes merge, like on bridges (especially Lion's Gate) cars from two merging lanes take turns. That's all I can think of of the top of my head. Canadians are pretty good and courteous drivers in general. Enjoy your trip!

Keep writing about Vancouver please, I really enjoy the posts!

Thanks Ann. We feel like unloaded most of our favorite things into these posts already. Please give us some ideas or questions and we'll see what we can do.

We are gong to visita Vancouver in february, do you recommend something different?

Hi Karla, In Feb you won't be able to hike, but still get outside. For example, go for a walk in Lynn Canyon or some other rain forest. They're just as beautiful, and much less busy, in the rain. Just bring a rain jacket and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Then spend a bit more time eating and drinking (see our Vancouver eating and drinking tips ) and doing cultural city stuff like exploring Vancouver neighborhoods (Commercial, Main St., Kits, see our Vancouver neighborhood guide ) and going to comedy/improv or theatre. Maybe even a hockey game if the dates work and that fits your budget. Also, look for events going on in the city while you're there. Hope that helps. Enjoy our hometown!

Hi! I’ve been reading some of your other posts, and as someone who grew up in Vancouver, I noticed your posts on my home city and wanted to offer some considerations. I think that words matter. Especially to people unfamiliar with a place, in this case, Vancouver.

1. It may not be wise to call The Downtown Eastside (DTES) skid row. Skid row is, as you say, a term used to denote the log skidding area from history. However, people use the term to describe poorer neighbourhoods to further alienate them. The DTES is a vibrant area with real humans, many of which are struggling with mental health, TRAUMA, and substance use issues. It is also not a place to ogle people.

2. Not all of Indigenous people in Vancouver or Canada for that matter identify as First Nations. Inuit people from the north and Métis (mixed Indigenous and French or Scottish ancestry) people also live in Vancouver. More specifically, individual Indigenous nations make up the land that is now called Vancouver. The Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples.

3. You may want to consider editing your section about the Chinese community in Vancouver. Especially considering the rise in anti-Asian hate it’s important to consider how we describe Chinese communities.

I’m open to dialogue if you want to contact me in case I have misinterpreted your thoughts.

Thanks Spencer! I've updated this post on your first two points. On #1, I got changed "Skid Row" to DTES and removed a stupid sentence on buying cheap stuff. I don't think I meant to give the idea to "ogle" people in the DTES any more than to the extent I'd ogle walking down Robson or along Kits Beach. On #2, I added exactly what you wrote to cover up my ignorance. As for #3, if you have suggestions on what to edit and how, I'm open to it. I tried to look at it from a "how could this be perceived as offensive or anti-Asian" and came up dry.

Thanks for sharing these valuable Vancouver travel tips! It's always helpful to have insider knowledge when visiting a new city. One question that comes to mind is about the cultural tips you mentioned. You mentioned not using umbrellas because it rarely rains too hard.

Yep. It mostly drizzles. As I write this, though, it's pouring. I guess mostly it's personal. Umbrellas annoy me.

Hi Guys my wife and I are coming over in June/July this ('24) renting a car and heading east towards Calgary to visit a family member and hopefully some more of Vancouver Island, especially up the north end.

Was last over in 2019 when I rode through the city on my motorcycle (had purchased one, had to sell during Covid) from Kamloops after having undertaken a 2 month explore of Alaska and western/Northern Canada, to the airport to pick up (at the time my partner) wife for another 3 weeks easy riding in the Rockies, best trip I have ever had with my 60nyrs on the this awesome rock.

A simple question if I may, we are not riding on this trip and plan on staying in Vancouver for 4 days after we arrive and a couple before we head back home to New Zealand. We are not party animals any more but would like to find a cost effective location to base ourselves from, is West End still your recommendation as it seems you started this blog a few years ago.

We are trying to stretch the budget a bit due to local costs and exchange rate hit but still want to enjoy the city as we didn't look around last trip.

thanks for any advice, and love your blog, its very good and a fine resource.

Hi Mike. Your motorcycle trip sounds like it was epic. For your Vancouver trip, depends on what your definition of "cost effective" is. My top tip for finding value would be to look for places along the SkyTrain line. They run every 3 minutes or so, so even if you're out of town, you can get in efficiently. Explore around your neighbourhood outside the city center and you may find some gems, too.

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A Local’s Guide to 43 Wonderful Things to Do in Vancouver, BC

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Wondering what to do in Vancouver?

I have to admit something – I am a very annoying person when it comes to talking about my hometown.

The reason is simple: I love Vancouver a scary amount, and if you ask me about it, I will literally frantically shout suggestions at you for as long as you’ll let me.

As such, I resisted ever publishing anything concrete about it – a very counterintuitive coping mechanism for my overwhelm.

There are so many great things to do in Vancouver, it’s impossible to narrow the list down to something short and sweet.

So I stopped trying. This list is the opposite of short and sweet – it is in fact, rather long and painful… and likely to make you go “yikes” while virtually backing away slowly. 

BUT, if you’re looking for a comprehensive list of things to see and do in Vancouver, Canada, this might be the exact lengthy bucket list you’re looking for, written with love by an overzealous local who is intense about you having a good time.

So… ENJOY IT. Every second! I’ll be eagerly watching your enjoyment from the shadows over there.

NOTE: This list includes suggestions for not just things to do in Vancouver, but also things to do in ‘the Greater Vancouver Area’, including cities like Burnaby and Richmond . These are all within 20 minutes of Vancouver proper though, and are well worth the trek!

Save this list of Things to Do in Vancouver for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

The Top 7 Touristy Things to do in Vancouver (That Are Worth it!)

Okay – let’s start with THE best things to do in Vancouver as recommended by every guidebook and website.

I’m a big fan of going off the beaten path, but the touristy things here are touristy for a reason, so be sure to check them off your list.

Not all attractions in Vancouver are made equal though, so here are the select few that have my personal seal of approval.

1. Ooh and ahh along the Stanley Park Seawall

If there’s one thing I demand every visitor do in Vancouver, it’s a jaunt along the Stanley Park seawall.

Seriously, this activity is peak Vancouver, and lovely even on a treacherous stormy day (as my boyfriend learned, when he visited for the first time and I wouldn’t take “no babe, there’s literal thunder striking down trees” for an answer).

Granted, exploring the famous Stanley Park seawall is best enjoyed on a beautiful day, but trust me when I say it has more than earned its stripes as one of the top things to do in Vancouver (as recommended in every single guidebook).

Stanley Park is an iconic slice of town located right in downtown Vancouver, featuring prominent attractions such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the city’s famous totem poles, idyllic Prospect Point, and the towering Lionsgate Bridge.

Its famous seawall hugs the water and leads you all the way to English Bay, one of the city’s best beaches, providing endless views of Vancouver’s glorious mix of mountains, sea and lush, lush greenery.

Renting bicycles to traverse the Seawall is a popular activity (you can book a tour like this one if you’re not feeling confident), but exploring it by foot is just as fun… and less hazardous if you’re a clumsy cyclist like me.

NOTE: For a darker twist on the usual Stanley Park sightseeing route, you can book this spooky tour.

2. Stop by Jack Poole Plaza and Canada Place

If I ever feel like I need to fall in love with Vancouver (trust me, for some reason I get this urge often), I head straight to Jacke Poole Plaza and Canada Place.

This is where you can find stunning views of the mountains and water, plus plenty of Vancouver’s most iconic public art pieces, including the pixellated whale, giant teardrop, and of course, the Olympic Cauldron which is a legacy from when Vancouver hosted the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

For a unique perspective, look for a set of stairs to the left of Cactus Club, where you can climb up and look over Jack Poole Plaza and the glassy buildings of Coal Harbour … one of my favourite views in the city!

From Jack Poole Plaza, you can easily walk to Canada Place, one of the most iconic symbols of Vancouver with its five flag facade, which lights up with different colours at night.

Along here, you’ll find the “The Canadian Trail”, a fun little walk dotted with plaques sharing facts aboot Canada and various pieces of our history.

SIDE TIP: One of the best (lesser known) views of Canada Place is in Granville Plaza, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic too as there’s loads of seats and benches. On a weekday though, you can expect to share this space with plenty of hungry office workers.

3. Hop on an Aquabus and explore Granville Island

Aquabus, you say?

Yes, what a fun, whimsical name… and I’m happy to confirm that the actual experience is just as delightful as its branding.

Yup – the Aquabus is a little rainbow boat that shuttles people all around False Creek… and it’s awesome.

Sure, it’s pricier than taking the bus, but riding it is a fun experience and I highly recommend trying it out for unique perspectives of Vancouver from the water.

While the Aquabus offers various routes, I recommend you take it to Granville Island , which is home to a famous food market, many food stalls/restaurants, a brewery and my personal favourite: Vancouver Theatresports, the best improv you’ll ever watch.

4. Meander around Gastown

As the oldest neighbourhood in Vancouver, Gastown is a romantic little slice of the city where you’ll find pretty cobblestoned streets lined with a throng of independent shops, boutiques and restaurants for days.

While I admit, this has become one of the more touristy areas in Vancouver (you’ll have no trouble finding MMM, Miscellaneous Moose Merch here), it is still a worthwhile place to visit… especially given its central location in the downtown core.

Sure, most visitors come here to drool puddles over the famous Gastown Steam Clock and the statue of Gastown founder, Gassy Jack, but there’s much more to do here, including munching away at some of the city’s best eateries (a food tour like this one might be a good idea if you’re short on time!) and shopping at unique local boutiques.

For a more macabre take on Gastown sights, you can also book this Lost Souls of Gastown tour.

5. Enjoy the serenity at Queen Elizabeth Park

For some of the best views in Vancouver and a gorgeous park to boot, head over to Queen Elizabeth Park.

This is one of my favourite parks in Vancouver, mostly because every inch of it is gorgeous…. and best of all, it’s free!

For context, this is where ALL the Vancouver youths go to take their prom pictures, so you can bet that it’s scenic and picture-perfect.

The park’s quarry gardens are a special highlight, with lush flora wrapped around pretty pathways, little bridges and even mini-waterfalls.

You’ll also find a Pitch & Putt here, along with free tennis courts, picnic areas, dancing fountains and the Bloedel Floral Conservatory.

6. Swap continents for a few hours at Doctor Sun Yat Sen’s Chinese Garden

While I don’t think that Vancouver’s Chinatown is an amazing experience for tourists (it’s sadly one of the roughest parts of town), the one exception for me is Doctor Sun Yat Sen’s Chinese Garden, particularly if you want to feel like you’ve been warped over to Asia.

This garden (which is next to an equally pretty free area, known as the Sun Yat-Sen Park) is the first Chinese garden of its kind of be built outside of China, with some gorgeous rock/water features, a lily pond, and covered walkways that hearken back to the Ming Dynasty.

You can grab tickets for this gorgeous oasis here.

7. Get THE best Vancouver views ever on a seaplane tour

While I admit, a bougie seaplane tour definitely isn’t the cheapest Vancouver activity, soaring above the city in style is still to date one of my favourite memories of Vancouver.

Really, getting to appreciate Vancouver during a scenic flight is a perspective like no other, and I highly recommend trying it out if you’re looking to do something special while you’re in town.

I booked a downtown panorama tour with Harbour Air and loved it. Their planes depart right at Coal Harbour, which makes access from downtown Vancouver a breeze.

Click here to check reviews and availability.

BONUS VANCOUVER MUST-DO: WHALE WATCHING! A lot of visitors come to BC for whale watching, and while I’ve heard it’s very much a hit and miss activity (incredible if you see whales, very underwhelming when you don’t) I figured I would put it on your radar. I can’t personally vouch for a company myself as I’ve never done it, but here is one with consistent five star reviews.

Alternatives to Overpriced/Overrated Vancouver Things to Do

Alright, with the touristy musts out of the way, I now want to share some of my personal favourite things to do in Vancouver with you. Consider this your list of local Vancouver secrets.

Truthfully, there are a lot of “tourist must-dos” in Vancouver that I think are overrated or overpriced. Here are my alternative recommendations for these popular sights:

8. Enjoy the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge (instead of Capilano Suspension Bridge)

One of the coolest things about Vancouver is how you can find a rainforest 20 minutes away from the downtown core, and usually visitors will go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge to experience it.

I do think the Capilano Suspension Bridge is gorgeous BUT only worth it when it’s not busy. Otherwise, the hordes of crowds make it pretty unbearable, and especially considering the hefty price tag, not really all that worth it.

Instead, there’s another suspension bridge in North Vancouver called the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Not only is it free, many of the trails around the bridge are really fun and there’s plenty of hiking to do in the area.

I won’t lie, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is MUCH better than the one in Lynn Canyon (it’s just way longer and more majestic) but Lynn Canyon is much less crowded with tourists and offers some great hiking opportunities for free.

If your main goal is to see the bridge, head to Capilano (and get tickets in advance here to make it more painless), but if you simply want to enjoy the best of North Vancouver’s nature, then Lynn Canyon is a much better value.

9. Do a Gastown food tour (instead of just staring at the Gastown Steam Clock)

Gastown is one of the loveliest (and most well-known) parts of Vancouver, but its main draw for a lot of tourists is the Gastown Steam Clock, which I’ve always found a bit baffling.

It’s a pretty clock, but that’s sort of it, and if seeing this clock is all you do in Gastown , you’re definitely not getting the most of your visit.

Instead of coming to gawk at a clock then running away, I’d recommend grabbing some food/drinks to properly soak in the Gastown atmosphere.

A great way to do this would be through a Gastown food tour, which brings you to a lot of the area’s best spots.

This Gastown food tour instance has rave reviews and hits up many of the most popular spots to eat in the area. Click here to check reviews and availability.

If you’d like to add some booze to your tour, there’s also this food, craft beer, and wine tour of Gastown that includes a variety of courses and drinks at different spots around Gastown.

10. Take a boat tour to see Vancouver (instead of Fly Over Canada)

I’ve done Fly Over Canada several times thanks to hook-ups from friends of mine, and while it’s pretty fun for a quick thing to do in Downtown Vancouver, I find it very overpriced ($30 per adult!!) for a short 12 minute attraction.

If you have ever done the Soaring over the World (formerly Soaring over California) rides at the Disney parks, this is exactly like that except with Canadian landscapes.

Overall, it’s fun and might be one of the more exciting things to do in Vancouver with kids, but I do find it’s very overpriced for a mild thrill ride.

INSTEAD, I would take that money and opt for seeing the real deal: take a boat tour and experience the gorgeousness of Vancouver from the water!

You can find quite a few ( like this one ) for less than $50 per person, so for only 20 additional bucks, you get an hour long boat ride instead of a 12 minute ride that goes by in the blink of an eye.

11. Visit Deep Cove and hike Quarry Rock (instead of doing the Grouse Grind)

A lot of people (Vancouverites included) are obsessed with the Grouse Grind.

It’s a steep set of stairs that brings you all the way up Grouse Mountain, and is like the ultimate flex when it comes to Vancouver hikes.

Doing ‘the Grind’ is a rite of passage for many, and doing it regularly is the mark of an athletic AF person with loads of discipline.

BUT, I don’t think the Grouse Grind is that fun for tourists.

For one – it is genuinely very difficult and unless you’re in good shape, it’s a bit torturey. Second, and most importantly, even when you hike up, you still need to take the gondola down and PAY FOR THAT PRIVILEGE.

Yes, your reward for a torturous climb is the privilege of paying $15 to ride back down without crying.

Granted, on top of Grouse Mountain there are some very Canadian experiences to enjoy for free, like the Grizzly Habitat and Lumberjack shows, plus other things like ziplines at additional cost, BUT I do still think this isn’t one of the best things to do in Vancouver.

Insteaaaaad, I recommend heading to Deep Cove, an adorable little town in North Vancouver .

This picture-perfect spot has lots of cute boutiques and places to eat, scenic harbour views, PLUS what I consider to be the best “value” hike in the Greater Vancouver Area: Quarry Rock.

This short hike will take you no more than 2 hours roundtrip, and offers up stunning PNW views. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy up top and soak in the views alongside alllll the locals, who can’t resist the view themselves.

This is a much nicer experience overall than the Grind, and you might even catch me up there sometime 😉

12. Enjoy the views from Cypress Mountain (instead of Grouse Mountain)

So while we’re talking about Grouse, I have an alternative to the mountain that is both free and in my opinion, better.

As I mentioned, most visitors will head to Grouse when they visit North Vancouver , but the gondola ride up is 60 bucks roundtrip, which is a lot considering many of the most exciting things to do come at additional cost.

There are some activities included of course like the Lumberjack shows, Grizzly habitat and bird demos, but overall, I find the ticket overpriced for what you get.

Instead, if it’s an incredible view you’re after, the one from the Cypress Mountain Highview Lookout (in neighbouring West Vancouver ) is my favourite in the city.

While it’s only accessible by car, the sweeping views over the city center, from Lions Gate Bridge to Stanley Park, is honestly breathtaking and especially magical at night – way better than the one at Grouse!

13. Head to Richmond (instead of hanging out in Vancouver’s Chinatown)

One of the highlights of visiting Vancouver is experiencing just how global a city it is, with plenty of incredible restaurants and shops representing cultures from around the world.

Vancouver’s Chinese community is particularly huge (hi!!) which means you’ll find some of the best Chinese food in the world right here.

But lots of tourist guides recommend you visit Chinatown for that purpose, which I don’t think is the best suggestion.

As I mentioned before, apart from the Doctor Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden, there’s not a lot to enjoy for tourists in Vancouver’s Chinatown, which is unfortunately very interlinked with the roughest part of Vancouver, the Downtown East Side.

Instead, if you want to experience Asian culture, I suggest you head to the city of Richmond (accessible from downtown Vancouver by only 20 minutes on Skytrain).

This place is straight-up teleportation to Asia itself, with an endless parade of Asian restaurants (everything from traditional HK diners to Korean BBQ!) and shops too.

Feeling overwhelmed? One great place to start is the Aberdeen Centre food court on the top floor. Trust me.

NOTE: Richmond can be overwhelming to navigate for newbies because many authentic places don’t cater to English speakers. A nice alternative if you’re going for ease is booking a Richmond food tour like this one where a guide can help you through it!

14. Enjoy the local craft beer scene (instead of partying on the Granville Strip)

As a Vancouverite, my memories of the infamous Granville Strip mostly involve 19-year old me stumbling down the puke-stained pavement, waiting too long in line, paying too much cover to get in, only to end up with sticky shoes and a shamey McDonalds coma.

I don’t love the nightlife scene in Vancouver to be honest, and overall I find the Granville Strip to be rather gross, but if you’re looking for clubs, this is known as the “it” place to party and often recommended by guides as the best place for a night out.

If clubbing is your thing, then suuuure I guess you get to experience the same sorta expensive, clubbing-induced misery as elsewhere in the world, but for an experience that’s much more ‘Vancouver’, I recommend sampling your way around the wonders of Vancouver’s craft beer scene, which has been hoppin’ (heh) for the past few years.

Mount Pleasant is one of the best neighbourhoods for brewery hopping, so be sure to check out this list of their top breweries to get started!

15. Go shopping in Kerrisdale (instead of Robson Street)

Kerrisdale is a super adorable neighbourhood filled with fun boutiques and places to eat, only a 20 minute commute from downtown Vancouver.

If you want a unique shopping experience, this would be much better than the (relatively dull) Robson Street in downtown Vancouver, which is filled with a mix of chain shops you can find pretty much anywhere (e.g. Zara), along with tacky gift shops.

Everrrrybody and their mom seems to recommend Robson as THE shopping destination in Vancouver, but if you want something that’s more unique and special, then head elsewhere, like Kerrisdale. They also do some cool candelight concerts at Kerrisdale Presbyterian sometimes ( like this Taylor Swift one I went to ), so you can make a whole day’s outing of it.

If Kerrisdale doesn’t sound like your jam, I also love West 4th, Main Street and Gastown for more independent/local shopping.

16. Take the seabus to North Vancouver (instead of paying for the Vancouver Lookout)

The Vancouver Lookout is an attraction in downtown Vancouver that offers beautiful 360 degree views of the city.

I do actually enjoy the view from here a lot, but you just take an elevator up and stare at the city from behind glass windows, which to me isn’t the most exciting experience if you only have a bit of time in Vancouver.

Instead, a 2 minute walk from the Vancouver Lookout, you’ll find the Seabus terminal. I’d recommend coming here and hopping on the seabus to North Vancouver .

While the Seabus is simply an extension of Vancouver’s public transportation system, this 15 minute ride across the water from downtown to Lonsdale Quay is one of my favourite things to do in Vancouver when I have visitors.

Not only do you get a sublime view of Vancouver’s glassy skyline, it’s the same price as a regular bus ticket (except cooler, because you’re on a boat).

The view of downtown Vancouver from Lonsdale Quay is stunning as well, and there’s plenty of good food to enjoy on the other side.

17. Watch sunset at Sunset Beach (instead of at English Bay)

English Bay is the most popular beach in Vancouver because of its location – it’s easily accessible by public transportation and smack dab in the downtown core.

It’s a nice enough beach, but it gets very crowded in the summer (especially with rowdy teenagers out of school!) * murmurs Get Off My Lawn *

So if you’re a grumpy granny in disguise like me, instead of hanging out at English Bay, I would recommend waltzing over to Sunset Beach, which is a short distance away, and one of the most breathtaking places in Vancouver to watch sunset.

The beach here is just as nice as English Bay, but there’s a few interesting public art sculptures like two giant engagement rings and a giant Inukshuk.

It’s also usually less crowded and as hinted in the name, phenomenally beautiful at sunset.

18. Take a stroll along the False Creek seawall (instead of just walking around the Stanley Park seawall)

While I love Stanley Park (it was, after all, #1 on this list!), another personal favourite seawall walk of mine is False Creek, by Science World.

Whether you do the route from Science World to Granville Island or the route from Science World over to Yaletown, the people watching is great, and you can spend your day ogling fluffy doggos while taking in unbeatable views of the City of Glass.

NOTE: I must stress though that the Stanley Park seawall walk is amazing and you should still check it out. I’m just letting you know there’s a second lesser known seawall walk that is amazing. Both are amazing. Vancouver is amazing. YOU’RE amazing. Okay? We good? Now, moving on…

19. Spend some time in Mount Pleasant (instead of just staying downtown)

One of my favourite summertime things to do in Vancouver is hanging out in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, filled to the brim with cool shops, street art, cafes and more.

This up and coming (or I guess it has been coming for a while? Sorry if that sounded dirty) is a neighbourhood just outside of the downtown core, making it quickly accessible by foot or by public transportation.

You won’t find a ton of guides recommending it to tourists, but Mount Pleasant is an unmistakably hip part of town swimming in food and shopping options and I honestly feel MUCH cooler every time I hang out there… and if it can revitalize an uncool pyjama-living grandma like me, imagine what it can do for you!

20. Do a bike tour (instead of a Hop on Hop off bus)

While I have the cycling abilities of a demented horse, I still have to admit that biking is one of the best ways to enjoy Vancouver (when you can do it without crying).

This is why I’d highly recommend doing a bike tour/bike rental instead of those Hop on Hop Off buses.

That’s because I feel like some of the nicest parts of the city (namely the seawall paths) are missed by these buses, so it’d be a huge wasted opportunity to miss them.

There are several bike tour options in Vancouver, but here’s one with consistent five star reviews. Click here to check reviews and prices.

Foodie Things to do in Vancouver

I’m gonna let you in on a local secret right now… every Vancouverite is straight-up obsessed with food.

Like, honestly, we eat as often as we breathe.

So, without hesitation, I can say that one of the BEST things to do in Vancouver is eat. I’d recommend clearing your schedule for some of the following quintessentially Vancouver food activities… 

21. Sob while eating a Japadog

Listen, I’m not crazy… I know it sounds weird: a Japanese-inspired hot dog, but trust me when I say that this Vancouver classic street food is like tasting dreams come true. In less hyperbolic terms, it’s delicious. So delicious.

I always bring visitors here and ye old Japadawgz are a hit every time. What started off as a lone street cart in 2005 is now one of Vancouver’s most beloved chains.

You can’t go wrong with their signature dog: the Terimayo, a classic sausage smothered in teriyaki sauce, Japanese mayo and topped with seaweed. I’m drooling over my keyboard just thinking about it.

22. Feast on sushi

It’s a commonly known fact among foodies that Vancouver has some of the best sushi in the world outside of Japan.

Our abundance of fresh seafood has given us the hookups, what can I say? There’s pretty much a sushi place on every block, so you’re spoiled for choice, but here are some of my favourites:

Miku: If you have a higher budget and want to truly indulge in some bougie sushi, Miku’s aburi sushi is what you need in your life. It melts in your mouth. Nothing compares. It’s SO good, but a little pricey compared to other options in Vancouver.

Sushi Garden: This is a no frills kind of place, but the sushi is awesome and the prices are SUPER low. It’s a local favourite in Burnaby , so expect long lineups and highly mediocre service (they can get away with it!)

23. Try Canada’s favourite drunk food: poutine

Poutine is Canadian comfort food on steroids. Imagine crunchy french fries soaked in gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds. Super healthy . I have two places in the city I usually hit up for poutine:

La Belle Patate: My favourite spot for poutine in Vancouver. It’s a little bit of a trek from the very downtown core but it’s worth it. Loads of different toppings to choose from and I’ve heard they import their cheese curds from Quebec. If you’re up for it, they even have a terrifying All You Can Eat option.

Smoke’s Poutinerie: More of a fast food type poutine, but still good. They’re conveniently located on the Granville Strip, close to all the clubs so it’s pretty packed with drunkies in the late hours of the night, but I’ve had it sober before and it’s still good! In particular, the pierogi poutine is lifechanging.

You canNOT visit Vancouver (or Canada period) without eating poutine until you want to throw up. You just can’t.

24. Have the best Asian food ever

If you like Asian food, Vancouver will be like a crazy food utopia for you. What’s your poison? Love Chinese food? Well take your pick from Shanghai, Szechuan, HK diner, Cantonese, and Hunan…

Want to slurp up umami-explosive ramen? We have a million ramen houses.

Prefer pho? WE HAVE 24/7 PHO. That’s not even a joke.

You can also eat your face off at Korean BBQ, Korean Fried Chicken, a myriad of bubble tea houses, straight-outta-Asia style food courts, and gosh… just really anything you can imagine.

Vancouver is to Asian food like Ryan Gosling is to abs. Take advantage of this delightful fact. Don’t worry – a food guide is coming soon!

25. Booze up at happy hour

Okay, so you want to enjoy Vancouver like a local? Well… Vancouverites LIVE for Happy Hour. We really do…

Why? Well, alcohol isn’t the cheapest here, so when we get a chance to booze up for cheap, we take it.

So, if you find yourself in need of a sightseeing break around 4-7pm, be sure to duck into a place for a happy hour special.

The ones at West Coast chains like Earl’s and Cactus Club are especially popular… but here are some of the best happy hours in Downtown Vancouver to get you started.

26. Go dodo for donuts

Vancouver, like any major city, goes through weird little waves of “popular” desserts…

I remember froyo being huge in my high school days, followed by cupcakes having their 15 seconds.

WELL, a few years ago, donuts were the it thing and a variety of amazing donut places popped up around the city.

Luckily, they’re here to stay, and Vancouver is now a bit of a donut lover’s paradise. Here are some places to check out:

Honey’s: This gem in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove serves up my favourite donut in the history of the universe. It’s a bit out of the way from the downtown core, but served hot and fresh, these bad boys are the epitome of deliciousness, so much that celebrities like Kate Winslet have praised their virtue.

Lucky’s: For big fat doughy donuts, Lucky’s is your place. They have a few branches including one in downtown Vancouver. Paired with 49th Parallel coffee, you have THE perfect treat. They have lots of different ones but the sourdough original is still my favourite.

PS: While not directly downtown, the 49th Parallel on Main St is one of my favourite places to hang out and have a coffee. Their cold brew will change you.

27. Have AMAZING ice cream

Sure Vancouver is notorious for its gloomy weather, but that doesn’t stop us from having some seriously delicious ice cream options.

There are some places in particular that are super famous… here are some recommendations for you:

La Casa Gelato is a Vancouver institution. It’s a bit hidden away in the (mostly residential/industrial neighbourhood of Strathcona ) but you’ll quickly find it once you look thanks to its bright pink facade. Inside lurks 200+ different flavours of ice cream, ranging from the terrifying like Viagra to the delicious, like Passionfruit Mango Sorbetto. Without a doubt, you are sure to find something you like here.

Earnest Ice Cream is a city-wide favourite (and my personal fave)  that has the cutest minimalist branding and the most delicious ice cream – perfectly rich and flavourful with simple classics done incredibly like salted caramel and earl grey. Be sure to treat yourself to a few giant scoops or you’ll be hauling out fifty pints (in adorable mason jars) for later.

Bella Gelateria is a hugely popular gelato place downtown that always has a line up down the block during summer months. I mean, they did win Best Gelato at this fancy Gelato festival in Florence a few years ago, so you can expect  q u a l i t y ! Not to be ~ that person ~ but this is the closest to authentic Italian gelato I’ve found in Vancouver, with that amazing whipped texture you won’t usually find in regular ice cream.

28. Try an outrageously garnished caesar

Okay – cultural lesson time! The caesar is Canada’s most beloved cocktail. It is also one that both shocks and horrifies international visitors.

Its ingredients? Delicious “Clamato” (i.e. clam/tomato) juice, vodka, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and plenty of celery salt along the rim of your glass. Imagine a bloody mary with clam juice – that’s basically what it is…

Most horrifying is perhaps the garnishes that come with it – sometimes a humble celery stalk, sometimes a stick of pepperoni or bacon, and other times, like they do at my favourite spot The Score, the caesar comes topped with a full roast chicken, BBQ pork sliders, a mac and cheese hot dog, onion rings and a brownie. No, I’m not joking. Yes, this IS real.

… Don’t worry though: they have some more modestly garnished caesars on the menu too. It’s a cool West End bar with a great vibe, so my top recommendation for trying a caesar!

29. Indulge your inner coffee snob

Vancouver has been hit hard by the third wave coffee craze, which means there’s an abundance of hipster coffee joints, especially downtown.

If you’re a coffee fan, make sure to caffeinate like crazy and enjoy this beloved part of our city’s food and drink culture. I’ll admit, while coffee is as much part of my lifestyle as sleeping or breathing, I’m not much of a discerning coffee drinker – I’ll drink anything, but I am especially partial to Parallel 49.

This article sums up a lot of the city’s most beloved coffee spots.

30. Grab lunch at a food truck

Growing up in Vancouver, I always thought that food trucks were the most normal thing….. that is, until I moved to Munich where there were none at all to be found.

I soon began to miss them and their quick but delicious bites, and now see them as a quintessential part of downtown Vancouver’s bustling charm.

SO, if you are entranced by the ~ exotic ? ~ appeal of food trucks, then be sure to add lunch at one to your Vancouver itinerary!

After all, if you find yourself in the downtown core on a weekday, odds are good that you’ll encounter countless food truck anyways, eager to feed and please the thousands of people who work in/around the financial district.

There are too many unique and delicious food trucks for me to name, so I would recommend following your nose (and following the line-ups!). My personal favourite is Eat Chicken Wraps though – their wraps are unreal.

The locals know what they like. Usually, you’ll find a ton of food trucks around the Art Gallery area. Click here for an app that shows you which ones are open!

Quirky and Fun Things to do in Vancouver

Alriiiiight now time to get weird. Okay, not too weird, but if you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary to do in Vancouver, here are some fun activities that are perfect.

31. Go mural hunting in Mount Pleasant

I’ve already gushed about the wonders of ultra-hip Mount Pleasant , but it’s worth mentioning again because of their fun, colourful murals. 

This little neighbourhood has giant murals plastered all over its various restaurants, shops, and office buildings, mainly thanks to the fact that it hosts the Vancouver Mural Festival every year.

The murals change often so be sure to use this official map here to keep tabs on where to go!

32. Check out a pink alleyway

Vancouver’s pink alleyway (AKA Alley-Oop) was quite literally made for Instagram, and while it’s nothing more than just an alleyway painted in bright pink and yellow, it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

You can find it on West Hastings between Seymour and Granville, although don’t expect much more than just a regular alley that’s a bit cuter….. and filled with people from all walks of life snapping photos and videos (true story, apparently a K-Pop group even filmed a music video here?)

PRO TIP: If you love snarkily people watching as much as I do, make sure you duck into Tree’s Organic [Granville St location], which is home to some of the city’s best cheesecake and grab a window seat overlooking this alley entrance. It’s really fun to eat cheesecake and watch all the people come do their photoshoots and all the people who walk past it and instantly light up.

33. Lose yourself in Asian culture at Aberdeen Center

It feels so weird to be recommending this place since I spent SO many weekends of my childhood here, but if you’d like a quick jaunt over to Asia, hop on the Skytrain and get yourself to Aberdeen Center in Richmond .

Not only do they have the BEST food court ever, touting everything from curry fishballs and bubble tea to soft serve crepe cones and crispy chicken wings, they also have lots of adorable shops and Asian arcades where you can get Japanese sticker pics (a great souvenir).

PS: Don’t forget to stop by Daiso, a Japanese (2) dollar store on steroids, which has a surprising range of goods available for only a toonie each. This is a really fun place to spend an afternoon (and eat your face off of course).

34. Chase famous filming locations

If you didn’t know already, Vancouver is a HUGE player in the film industry and is often called Hollywood North for the countless productions that have shot/continue to shoot here.

You might have never realized it before, but our versatile little chameleon of a city has been transformed into New York, Seattle, and countless fictional cities over the past few decades.

So, odds are very good that you’ll know a movie or two that filmed here, so consider doing a bit of research to see if any of your favourites have filmed here, and track down some iconic locations!

Off the top of my head, big TV shows that have filmed here include Once Upon a Time, Riverdale, any CW Superhero shows (e.g. Flash, Arrow, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow), Deadpool, and way more. Here is a good place to start your research!

SIDE NOTE: There is a very high chance that there will be some productions filming during your visit too! If you’re a major film geek and are curious about who/what might be in town at the same time as your trip, this site is a great place to start.

35. Cheer on the Vancouver Canucks at a hockey game

If there’s one Canadian stereotype that is 1000% true (besides the fact that we are constantly saying sorry), it’s that people really love their hockey around here.

If you’ve never experienced a live hockey game, I’d recommend giving it a try in Vancouver – the energy is a lot of fun!

Tickets can be quite pricey but sometimes you’ll be able to find a deal here on GetYourGuide. Otherwise, the main place to get tickets is through the official website via Ticketmaster.

NOTE: There are also Season Ticket groups like this one where season ticket holders sell tickets they’re not using, often for a better deal than on Ticketmaster, as well as the GameTime app which sometimes has last minute deals.

36. Bounce around at a trampoline park

Trust me, you don’t know joy until you’ve trampolined into a pit of foam blocks.

It’s like faceplanting into a cloud, getting a group hug from mashmallows, etc. Sure, this isn’t a uniquely Vancouver activity, but if you’re from a place that doesn’t have a trampoline park of its own, this is a REALLY fun activity that you should try out.

My favourite go-to for all this jumping around this is Extreme Air Park, where there are not only trampolines all over, but trampoline dodgeball too, some blacklight time, and more.

Plus, their Richmond location is actually the largest indoor trampoline park in the country. Click here to learn more.

NOTE: Be sure to wear athletic gear though – you’d be surprised at how quickly you can work up a sweat. 

37. Try out an escape room

I don’t know when “getting locked in a room” became such a popular Vancouver past time, but it is.

Escape Games are now all over the city, and having done a few myself, I can confirm they’re a lot of fun. This would be a great rainy day or family activity.

Again, not exactly the most Vancouvery thing to do, but a fun activity if you’ve gotten tired of conventional sightseeing. 

38. Chill like a dude at Dude Chilling Park

I honestly feel like half the joy that this place sparks is just from the knowledge that it exists.

Yes guys, Dude Chilling Park is a REAL place in Vancouver that you can visit!

Okay – truth be told, it’s a rather average and mediocre park, but that sign though? Gold.

A side trip to Dude Chilling Park makes most sense if you’re exploring Mount Pleasant . Otherwise, don’t go out of your way to see it. Trust me – it’s a very lackluster park….

That sign though!

Cultural Things to do in Vancouver

Looking for more cultural activities to try in Vancouver? Here are some spots I like to go when I’m feeling particularly cultured. *twirls moustache*

39. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

Wonderfully acronymed as the VAG (heh), this art gallery can be found in the very heart of Vancouver’s downtown core and is a bit hit or miss depending on the exhibitions that they have on.

I caught an exhibition of fashion powerhouse Guo Pei here a few years back and it was awesome, but (honestly) I don’t think that the permanent collection here is necessarily worth going out of your way to see.

That said, if you find yourself looking for a fun rainy day activity, this is definitely one to consider. Note that Tuesday evenings, admission is by donation, so if you don’t hate crowds, you can save some money by going then.  Click here to learn more on the official website.

40. Head to the Museum of Anthropology

UBC’s Museum of Anthropology is definitely one of the city’s best hidden gems, located about 20 minutes away from downtown Vancouver.

If you want to see some of the best examples of First Nations art in the city, this gorgeous museum (with sea and mountain views no less) is a great place to go.

From cedar wood carvings and special Indigenous weavings to an award-winning ceramics gallery, this is a huge museum that deserves a visit if you have the time. Click here to learn more.

Plus, I hate saying this since I went to their rival university, but the UBC Campus is trulyyyyyy gorgeous.

41. Check out all the public art pieces

Whether you consider yourself into art or not, Vancouver is a  really fun place to go hunting for public art. Mainly because it’s all SUPER weird.

From a massive pixellated whale and a stack of vintage cars to weird giant laughing men, you’ll find all sorts of oddities scattered around downtown Vancouver.

Once upon a time, there were even giant jellybeans! JELLYBEANS, I SAY! Sadly, those giant fun beanz are gone now, but you can find a detailed guide to different public art pieces in the city here.

42. Watch improv on Granville Island

Improv at Granville Island is hands down one of my favourite things to do in Vancouver, and my boyfriend loves it so much, he requests we go multiple times when he visits. If you’re looking for a laugh, Vancouver Theatresports never disappoints.

Their themed shows are my favourite, and they change them every few months.

Once they had a Game of Thrones theme improv that was so hilarious, I still sometimes quote it. I know, I’m lame.

43. Go to a beautiful candlelight concert

If you’re looking for something ultra romantic to do in Vancouver, I can definitely recommend going to a candlelight concert. They host many of these throughout the year with really great themes, from contemporary hits like A Tribute to Taylor Swift, to more classical options like Vivaldi .

Long story short: for these concerts, they deck out pretty venues like churches with a bunch of LED candles and have musicians play a gorgeous set list based on the evening’s theme. The organizers kindly invited me to the Taylor Swift one recently and I was pretty much on the verge of tears the whole time – Bridgerton vibes to the max! Just be sure to get tickets in Zone A for the best possible experience, and arrive early as seating is first come, first serve within zones.

Check out upcoming concerts here.

NOTE: In Vancouver, the two main venues for this are Christ Church Cathedral and Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church – I would definitely recommend picking a concert at Christ Church if you can because it’s much easier to reach by public transport (right across from Burrard Station). The venue is also a lot more ornate than the one in Kerrisdale, but at the end of the day, it’s the music that matters most, so be sure to pick a theme that you’re obsessed with.

Seasonal Things to do in Vancouver

Lastly, I want to run through some of the special highlights according to season! Everything listed above can be done year-round, but there are some quintessentially Vancouver experiences that you shouldn’t miss out on depending on the time of year you visit:

Vancouver Winter Highlights

Skiing, snowboarding, hot chocolate festivals, food festivals, Vancouver Christmas market and more. Winter-time, despite the chilly weather, is a truly glorious time to be in the city.

Click here for a long list of Vancouver winter activities to take advantage of.

Vancouver Spring Highlights

If you happen to be in Vancouver in late March or early April, you might just spot some of the city’s world-famous cherry blossoms!

Vancouver’s incredible cherry blossoms are one of the city’s best kept secrets.

Outside of Japan, I truly believe this is one of the best places in the world to frolic under bright pink blossoms that paint the streets of Vancouver pink every Spring. Click here for a full guide on where to find the best cherry blossoms in Vancouver.

Vancouver Summer Highlights

For obvious reasons, I think summer is the perfect time to visit Vancouver.

There’s the beaches, the street festivals, the music festivals, food truck festivals, and SO much more… name a random niche and we probably have a festival for it.

Plus, the great outdoors are part of the reason that Vancouver is such a wonderful place to visit so be sure to take advantage of this by going on a hike, enjoying a beach day, enjoying Pride, listening to jazz during the Vancouver jazz festival and just enjoying the sweet west coast lifestyle by bumming around on a patio. 

Click here for a great summary of summer activities in Vancouver

Vancouver Autumn Highlights

Autumn is a stunning time to visit Vancouver thanks to its abundance of wonderful, colourful foliage!

I love Fall in Vancouver (when weather cooperates) because you get beautiful weather, mild temperatures and wonderful ahh-worthy photo opps around every corner. Definitely an underrated time to visit!

You can click here for some Fall ideas on things to do in Vancouver.

What to do in Vancouver Today and This Weekend

Besides the evergreen activities listed above that are mostly available year round, one of the great things about being in Vancouver is that there’s loads of interesting events at your finger tips!

If you’re looking for special events happening today/this weekend in Vancouver, click here for a city events calendar and be sure to check out the most popular local sources for things to do include Daily Hive and Narcity .

A Map of All These Vancouver Things to Do

Did i miss any of your favourite things to do in vancouver.

I hope you enjoyed that thorough guide on what to do in beautiful Vancouver, BC. Did I miss any of your favourite activities? Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

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3 thoughts on “A Local’s Guide to 43 Wonderful Things to Do in Vancouver, BC”

I’m originally from Vancouver too, but haven’t lived there since 2013. This this gave me a lovely nostalgic thrill… and made me want to start looking for travel deals to get there from Zürich!

Agreed that going to see a Canucks game is super fun—and I’d suggest the Vancouver Giants (the local WHL minor league team) for more budget-friendly fun: https://vancouvergiants.com/ The level of play is still pretty high and the tickets are less expensive.

Going a little further into Richmond, Steveston is a cute, former fishing village with a lovely waterfront, a great beachside park (Garry Point), and delicious fish and chips (Pajo’s https://www.pajos.com/locations/pajos-on-the-wharf-steveston/ and Dave’s https://www.davesfishandchips.com/ ). Steveston was originally settled by Japanese fishermen and used to have a major fish canning plant. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery historical site explores the area’s origins in depth (and has a nice gift shop) and the Steveston Museum is in an adorable historical house and includes a post office for sending off super-cute postcards. Steveston was one of the main filming locations for Once Upon a Time and there are still some remnants of the TV show.

And, for people visiting the Vancouver area with kids, there’s an amazing adventure playground kinda close to the airport: https://www.richmond.ca/parks/parks/about/amenities/park.aspx?ID=116 Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment (a pretentious name for a very down-to-earth park) isn’t really accessible by transit, but if you’ve got a car and some rambunctious kidlets, it’s totally worth the trip.

Wow, great post. Thanks for sharing

Such detail , bravo ! I would like to visit Vancouver some day , you have given me so many options,

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20 Amazing Things to Do in Vancouver, BC

• Last Updated: February 6, 2024

The complete guide to the best things to do in Vancouver, Canada!

Located on Canada’s west coast in the province of British Columbia is the vibrant and bustling city of Vancouver.

This coastal city is a well-travelled location for visitors from all over the world and has quickly become one of Canada’s most popular destinations year-round.

Boasting the most temperate and mild of climates in Canada, Vancouver does not see the crazy cold that the rest of Canada does.

READ MORE: Check out the complete guide to travelling in Canada !

Nor does the city see as much snow, making it more accessible in the winter months.

Summer in Vancouver is incredible, with the sunshine lasting well after 9 pm. It is also the driest time of the year in a city that is known for its precipitation.

Home to iconic neighbourhoods such as Gastown, Kitsilano, Yaletown and North Vancouver you will find so many varied areas to explore. There are also islands, such as Granville Island which is home to the famous Granville Island Public Market. You’ll never run out of things to do in Vancouver, Canada!

Table of Contents

1) Head to Granville Island

2) get lost in the woods, 3) set your sights on stanley park and the seawall in english bay, 4) check out the vancouver art gallery, 5) beach hop, 6) suspend your senses at capilano suspension bridge park, 7) get down to gastown, 8) get to grouse mountain, 9) eat your way through the richmond night market, 10) escape to the cove, 11) find your zen at dr. sun yat sen classical garden, 12) channel your inner-child at the pne, 13) cruise around false creek, 14) venture out to north van, 15) get your science on, 16) multiple museums to visit, 17) visit the queen’s park, 18) find a fabulous food tour, 19) hit the slopes at mt. seymour, 20) vandusen botanical gardens, budget accommodation – hi-vancouver downtown, mid-range accommodation – rosewood hotel georgia, luxury accommodation – fairmont pacific rim hotel, the best things to do in vancouver, canada.

The multicultural city of Vancouver, Canada is overflowing with experiences for every style of traveller on every budget.

From the saving savvy backpacker to the luxury-loving visitors, there are plenty of things to do in Vancouver.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our brand new guide on how to spend 3 days in Vancouver !

No matter what you’re in the mood for, the city is your oyster and has so much on offer.

Vancouver, Canada is consistently named as 1 of the top 5 places to live in the world. It’s no wonder why, considering the incredible urban infrastructure, lush green spaces, and close proximity to the sea. It’s even so close to the mountains that you can be there in 30 minutes or less!

What more could you want?

Add on a city full of history and culture, an incredible foodie scene and also the endless entertainment opportunities, it is no surprise that people want to visit Vancouver, Canada!

With endless opportunities for fun in the city, here is a list of things to do in Vancouver that will help you make the most of your trip.

Okay, maybe Granville Island isn’t exactly an island. But this peninsula across the way from False Creek is worth a visit.

Once an industrial area, Granville Island is now home to some of Vancouver’s best restaurants, shopping and entertainment areas around.

The massive Granville Island Public Market is a major draw too. There are over 50 permanent retailers, a farmers market, artisan food, drink and crafts on offer as well as a garden centre at Granville Island Public Market.

Grab a bike and cruise across the Granville Street bridge down onto the “island.”

Or hop on a ferry at any number of spots including False Creek and Sunset Beach for a quick ride across the water.

Granville Island has tons of restaurants to choose from including Tap & Barrel, Tony’s Fish & Oyster Cafe and the dozen food stalls within the public market.

In addition to all of those great places, The Granville Island Brewery is here serving up perfect pints to try.

Take a tour of the brewhouse, stop in for a tasting flight & lunch or grab something from the retail shop.

Cycle around the quaint streets and gorgeous parks on Granville Iwsland or opt for a kayak or paddleboard rental to take to the water for a little adventure and some fantastic views.

Lynn Canyon Park is located in North Vancouver and is home to some of the most beautiful woods the city has to offer.

Accessible via public transit as well as cars, this location has a great range of trails for all.

This is also a great free option if the Capilano Suspension Bridge proves to be a little bit out of your budget. Pacific Spirit Park is another lush green space near the city where you can get a taste of nature.

But in the winter, Lynn Canyon Park is perfect for beating the crowds as there is potential that you’ll have all the trails to yourself too.

First opened in 1912 and only covering 12 acres, the Capilano Suspension Bridge park now encompasses 617 acres of beautiful woodlands trains, a gorgeous suspension bridge and swimming hole throughout.

The trails are well marked and there are maps located throughout the park to ensure visitors’ safety while enjoying their time here.

In the summer months, there are hundreds of visitors coming into the park daily not only to hike but to cook off in the beautiful freshwater lakes.  

There are several locations known for cliff jumping, one of which is referred to as 30 Foot Pool .

This is most likely because the water is said to be about 30 feet deep.

As this is still a nature park there are no lifeguards and it is a swim/jump at your own risk location.

There are a lot of spots where the water is calm and perfect for setting-up camp for an afternoon with friends or family.

But it always pays to be cautious where the water is not so calm, but still beautiful.

This is definitely the coolest thing to do in Vancouver on a hot summer day!

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all the amazing things to do in Banff !

Possibly the most iconic and top stop on everyone’s Vancouver sightseeing list, Stanley Park and the famous SeaWall near English Bay.

Stanley Park covers 405 hectares surrounded mostly by the waters of Burrard Inlet and English Bay.

Rent bikes from downtown and circle the park taking in the breathtaking views of English Bay, as well as the infamous totem poles near the aquarium.

Cruise over to Prospect Point for incredible views over the massively impressive Lions Gate bridge , before heading back to the trail and continuing onto the beaches and into the West End .

One of the best things to do in Vancouver would be to start out at the SeaWall and marvel at the rainbow-coloured houseboats and the seaplanes taking off over the mountains.

Then grab a coffee before continuing into Stanley Park either on foot or by bike.

There are plenty of places to stop along the way for a picnic or even stop in at the Stanley Park teahouse for lunch.

If you are staying in the West End you can start off here and follow the same route (backward though) and end up in the heart of downtown.

No matter how you get onto the trail (walking, cycling, rollerblading) or which direction you choose to go this should definitely be on everyone’s list of things to do in Vancouver.

The Vancouver Art Gallery was originally founded in 1931 in a totally different location than it stands today.

This national historic site of Canada is home to over 10,000 works of art and can be found on Hornby Street in a building that once was the Provincial Courthouse.

Today the gallery extends over 3 city blocks and connects to the Robson Square shopping centre via an underground tunnel.

The permanent collection includes works of art from both Canadian and international artists, those of which include Emily Carr, Jeff Wall and Marc Chagall.

In addition to a vast number of art pieces, there are photography exhibits in the gallery as well which is something a little different.

The gallery is also home to a library and archives which houses 45,000 books, 500 files on Canadian artists and 100 journal subscriptions.

A cafe is here and open to the public and offers a sidewalk patio facing a pedestrian section of the block where live music can be heard and street performers frequent.

An added bonus – Tuesday evening tickets are discounted so you’ll be able to visit and save a few dollars. 

While the west coast of British Columbia in Canada is renowned for the mountains, some might be surprised to hear that Vancouver is home to about as many beaches as mountains near downtown.

Sunset Beach is perfect for, well its name gives it away, but sunsets!

Watch the sky turn pink then orange and fade into the night on a blanket here before heading out for a night on the town.

Second and Third Beach can be found along the Stanley Park SeaWall and are perfect spots for resting your legs as you make your way around.

Kitsilano Beach is chock full in the summer and also has a seaside swimming pool if you don’t fancy a dip in the ocean.

Wreck Beach is another popular spot. Wreck Beach is “clothing optional”, and was declared Canada’s first ever nudist beach in 1991. It is a gorgeous beach that is beautiful for a swim, and whether you wear clothes or not at Wreck Beach is up to you!

Jericho Beach is located at the far end of the Kitsilano Neighbourhood.

It is one of the more quiet beaches, perfect for volleyball or frisbee, great for watching the fireworks on Canada Day.

It is even home to a hostel open throughout the summer months.

While summer may not last all year round, the views from these beaches are some not to be missed no matter when you visit.

To find out more, visit the City of Vancouver website .

When it comes to what to do in Vancouver, everyone you speak to will tell you to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge .

And everyone is not wrong! Welcoming 1.2 million visitors annually, this is one of the most popular Vancouver attractions in British Columbia.

The bridge stretches 460 ft from end to end and is suspended 230 ft above the river below.

It can get quite busy here year-round so it’s best to head out first thing to miss out on the lines that form to cross the bridge.

The park is so much more than just the infamous suspension bridge. It includes a story centre full of history of the area, the bridge and the surroundings.

In 2011 the park unveiled its newest attraction: the cliff walk.

The suspended walkway extends out from the cliff face and a see-through glass walkway allows people to see the area like never before.

Walk between the giant douglas fir trees among 7 smaller suspension bridges and give a look at the resident owls that are kept here.

If your visit should bring you to Capilano during the holidays (November – January) you’ll be able to feast your eyes on Canyon Lights .

Hundreds of thousands of lights are installed throughout the park and across the bridge to create an enchanting wonderland to explore.

Check the website for visitor info because the hours change based on season.

The oldest neighbourhood in the city, and possibly the most charming one too is Gastown.

Gastown is the original settlement that created the current downtown Vancouver, and was named by a Yorkshire seaman.

“Gassy” Jack Deighton arrived in what is now Vancouver in 1867 and opened a saloon in the now known as Gastown.

This part of this city will make you feel like you’re strolling around one of Europe’s oldest cities, with its cobbled streets, charming storefronts and of course the iconic steam clock.

Built-in 1977 to cover a steam grate, this clocktower is not only beautiful but powered partially by steam and chimes every 15 minutes.

Gastown is the perfect neighbourhood to go in search of restaurants too, some of which include The Flying Pig,  Tacofino , and Steamworks Brewery .

You’ll find countless galleries, pubs, cafes and souvenir shops in the area as well.

If you’re looking for a more unique experience in Gastown then book yourself in on the Lost Souls of Gastown walking tour .

The tour will take guests through the neighbourhood on a lamplighter tour of the gruesome underbelly of Gastown history including stories of murder, mayhem and deadly fire.

One of Vancouver’s North Shore mountains that should be at the top of anyone’s things to do in Vancouver list is Grouse Mountain .

With an elevation of over 4,000 ft at its peak, Grouse Mountain is the perfect place to hit the slopes during the winter months in British Columbia.

With 26 runs ranging from beginner to intermediate, there are also a series of snowshoe trails, a skating rink and a gorgeous chalet to warm up and relax in.

With that being said, you don’t need to wait for the snow to get out to Grouse Mountain.

The Grouse Grind aka Mother Nature’s Stairmaster is a 2.9 km trail up the side of the mountain.

Used daily by locals as a way to get out of the gym and get their steps in and is a pretty great workout.

Alternatively, there is the BCMC trail just to the left that allows for a less crowded hiking experience on Grouse Mountain.

Hikers can opt to trek up and take the chairlift back down at the end to rest their weary legs.

If you fancy a more exhilarating experience why not opt for a zipline adventure on Grouse Mountain?

Or for something a little more low key there is the annual light walk to check out. 

During the winter months, a portion of Grouse Mountain is transformed into a magical walking trail covered in thousands of lights for visitors to explore on foot or by snowshoe.

This is a truly breathtaking event in the North Shore Mountains, as you can also see the city below lit up in the dark.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to explore Victoria on Vancouver Island!

For less than $5.00/person you’ll gain access to the largest night market in all of North America.

The Richmond Night Market located in the suburb of Richmond is definitely one of the top things to do in Vancouver for food lovers.

Operating from May to October the market welcomes over 1 million visitors every year and has grown tenfold from humble beginnings in a small shop.

Spanning over 18 acres, the market boasts over 100 food stalls and 200 retailers throughout, focusing mainly on Asian flavours.

With a large Asian population, the founder of the Richmond Night Market has brought all the tastes of Asia to Vancouver with a few additions of North American flavours.

Everything you’ll find here is delicious beyond belief.

There are also carnival-style games and amusements on offer at the Night Market making it the perfect night out when visiting Vancouver.

If you ask a local what one of the top things to do in Vancouver is, they will likely reply with “escape to the cove.”

Deep Cove is located on the Northside of Vancouver and is a great place to find yourself in nature.

This is the perfect place to get out on the calm waters of the Burrard inlet in a kayak, canoe or paddleboard, or if you have a friend who has a sailboat in the marina that works too.

The town itself is small but quaint, offering a fair amount of local shops and some delicious restaurants and cafes.

This includes Honey Doughnuts, where you can find the best sweet treats on Vancouver’s North Shore.

The Baden Powell trail intersects in Deep Cove and leads to the Quarry Rock trail .

The relatively quick hike takes you through the trees and is well marked from the road.

In about an hour’s time, you’ll find yourself coming to a clearing and looking out over the town below.

These spectacular panoramic views are a reward, especially on hot sunny days.

Perfect for picnics, watching the sunset or just enjoying the views of British Columbia.

It can become quite crowded in summer but as the top part of the small peak is not massive there is never a wait for a place to sit.

And if you’re lucky enough you may lay your eyes on some famous Deep Cove residents.

For instance, Ben Affleck is said to have a home here.

If you’re looking for the best place to find a little bit of peace and quiet, look no further than Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Garden in Chinatown.

The gardens are the first Chinese Scholar gardens built outside of China.

Built in 1985 and opened just in time for the Expo in 1986, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Garden is a longstanding part of Chinatown’s history in Vancouver.

Because the winter climate in Vancouver is similar to that of the Suzhou region, where the flora in the garden comes from, the plants here thrive year-round.

Named after the Father of Modern China, the gardens boats lush green spaces while tranquil ponds and vibrantly coloured flowers.

There are events put on throughout the year, including tea ceremonies, art exhibitions and even Tai Chi in the garden.

Come for a stroll to clear your mind and admire the beautiful surrounds that exist right in the middle of the city.

The PNE or Pacific National Exhibition is one thing to do in Vancouver if you love amusement parks.

In the summer months, you’ll be able to visit PlayLand with wooden roller coasters, extreme rides, a Ferris wheel and all those classic amusement park games too.

In addition to a wicked amusement park, the venue hosts a multitude of other amazing Vancouver activities including Hasting Winter Market (November – April) and the incredibly magical and festive Aurora Winter Festival.

For six weeks starting in November, The PNE is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland.

With a massive skating rink, an inner tube slide park, a multitude of giant sculptures all decorated in lights.

Whatever happens, to be at The PNE is well worth the visit no matter the time of year, the thrills are there to be had.

READ MORE: Here’s our list of all the best things to do in Calgary !

Vancouver is super cycling-friendly and it’s one of the best ways to explore the city.

Hire a bike or hop on your own and go out to explore.

A great thing to do in Vancouver is cruise along False Creek from Charleston Park to BC Place and into Yaletown.

False Creek is a small inlet that separates downtown Vancouver and the rest of the city and has some fantastic views towards Granville Island and out to the Vancouver Science Center.

With a few green parks dotted along this area, it is the perfect place to cycle around making stops along the way for picnics, a game of frisbee or a run around with your dog. 

Admire the view as you come over to the Science Center and into Yaletown where you’ll find a ton of restaurants, pubs and cafes to refuel after all that cycling.

North Vancouver quick jaunt from the city but is some to some of the greatest things to do in Vancouver too.

Hop on the Seabus from Waterfront Station downtown and take the ferry across to Londsdale Quay where you’ll find a public food market with tons of vendors and food stalls.

What brings most people to this part of Vancouver are the multiple trails and wooded areas to explore.

Some of the trails worth checking out are The Baden Powell Trail which is part of a 48 km series of trails from Deep Cove to Horseshoe Bay.

If you’re looking to chase some waterfalls be sure to make out Norvan Falls located in the lush Lynn Headwaters Regional Park .

This trail can take some time to complete but the falls are worth it and perfect for a swim in the summer.

If you’re looking for a shorter trail, Cleveland Dam trail will take you around the Capilano reservoir and you’ll be able to look down over the 91m high concrete dam.

For a casual stroll to get a feel for this part of the city it’s totally worth checking out Waterfront Park and Victoria Park .

Park & Tilford Gardens are also a lovely place to explore too if you have the chance.

Just look for the giant silver ball on the water. Okay, well not on the water exactly but it sure does look like it’s floating in the inlet at False Creek.

The gorgeous building that houses Vancouver’s Science World was originally built for the World Fair Expo in 1987 in downtown Vancouver.

Experience interactive displays and exhibitions. Immerse yourself in the incredible world of science by attending live talks by scientists in all sorts of fields.

Or maybe take in a film at the onsite Imax theatre. 

The Science Center isn’t just for the kids in the group either!

Attend Science World After Dark events where you’ll get to experience multiple exhibitions and interactive and live science shows all with a drink or two in your hand.

For more details and dates check out the Science Center website .

The Science Center also holds additional events throughout the year such as The Science of Cocktails, The Science of Superdogs and even a virtual reality experience sure to blow your mind at new heights.

When it comes to things to do in Vancouver on a rainy day (and there are a few of those days) never fear.

The museum scene in downtown Vancouver is incredible. With so many to choose from you’ll be able to cozy up in the gorgeous buildings as the rain falls outside immersing yourself in some serious culture.

Visit the Museum of Vancouver , which is the largest civic museum in Canada and home to award-winning exhibits showcasing the city’s history.

The Vancouver Convention Centre isn’t exactly a museum, but it does always host events and shows that can be enlightening.

Or head to the Vancouver Police Museum in a beautiful heritage building to learn all about the history of the police force in the city center.

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is one unrivalled by others.

Here you’ll find inspiring sections on First Nations Band Governments and even a European ceramic gallery.

There is also the Pacific Museum of Earth at UBC which is small but chock full of incredible moments in natural history. 

And for all those sports lovers there is also the BC Sports Hall of Fame to be explored.

No matter what you’re interested in there is a museum to keep you entertained for hours.

READ MORE: The ultimate guide for hiking in Banff National Park .

During the autumn months, one of the best things to see in Vancouver is the colours changing around Queen Elizabeth Park .

Situated in the city center on the adorably named Little Mountain sits 130 acres of gorgeous greenery.

Named after Queen Elizabeth herself for an impending visit in 1993, the views here are regal.

Take your bike up here to cruise around or grab a coffee and stroll in to enjoy all the park has to offer.

The park offers incredibly beautiful views back to downtown Vancouver, and in the fall the leaves on the trees turn golden and rust coloured making the view even better.

Open year-round, this park is a Vancouver attraction that brings countless visitors.

In addition to the gardens, there are also sculptures throughout, an arboretum, a conservatory for flowers, a pitch and putt site and even tennis courts.

Keep your eyes out for events happening during certain holidays as the park has been known to host special events.

For example, a winter wonderland at Christmas was once installed at the top of the park complete with a Ferris wheel and poinsettia garden.

Another lovely park to visit is Pacific Spirit Park. This urban park with over 750 hectares of forest feels like you’re really in the wilderness. Hiking in Pacific Spirit Park is one of the best things to do in Vancouver.

With dozens of different cultures and nationalities running through the veins of the people who call Vancouver home it’s no wonder why the city has some of the best food in the country.

One of the top things to do in Vancouver for foodies is to get yourself booked on a food tour.

From seafood to Indian delicacies, perfect bowls of ramen and vegan friend comfort food there is something to be found around every corner of the city center.

Get in touch with Secret Food Tours Vancouver for their food or beer tour.

The team here will take you around Gastown on the food tour or around the Olympic Village for the beer tour, either of which will be fantastic! 

If you’re visiting during the holidays, check out the Christmas Classics Market tour to get into the Christmas spirit while touring Granville Island.

The Original Vancouver Food Tour has tons of options for tours from the Richmond dumpling trail to a vegan food tour and even the modern Chinatown tasting tour.

Whether you’re looking to try new and exciting types of food or expand your tastes with some local delicacies the city center is full of food tours for everyone’s taste.

Be sure to wear your stretchiest pants to make the most of it!

High above downtown, you’ll find a perfect place to do some Vancouver sightseeing on a whole new level.

When it comes to what to see in Vancouver, you’ll be able to see it all up from the peak of Mt Seymour on the North Shore.

Strap on your skis or snowboard and hit the 23 different runs the mountain has to offer.

If you’re looking for a different way to take in the views, strap on some snowshoes – which can be rented at the hill – and head around the numerous trails in the Provincial Park for a slower-paced adventure.

Summer travellers don’t despair, the summer options at Mt. Seymour are also endless.

With 15 + trails to get out on you’ll have your pick of many different types of trails.

Some top choices include Flower Lake Loop, Old Buck Trail, Mystery Lake and even the intermediate Mt. Seymour itself.

A favourite from locals in summer or winter is the trail up Dog Mountain .

This moderate level hike can be done on snowshoes in the winter and is relatively hilly in the summer as well as winter.

Once you reach the top you’ll be gifted with the most amazing views out over the city center and on the clearest of days you might even get a glimpse out to the islands.

When it comes to things to do in Vancouver for those who love a good garden, VanDusen Botanical Gardens should not be missed.

Located on the grounds that were once a golf course, these gardens were opened in 1975 and named after a local lumberman.

Covering about 55 acres here you’ll be able to find local and native flowers and plants, a totem pole garden and a vegetable garden.

Operated and kept by numerous volunteers the lush grounds of VanDusen are some of the most well-kept in the country.

In the spring you’ll be able to see gorgeous colours blooming around every corner.

One of the most impressive sights is the rhododendron garden bursting with beautiful flowers.

There are also special events that take place throughout the year that visitors are encouraged to take part in.

For example, the bird walks, an annual plant sale and the incredible Festival of Light event over the holidays.

Vancouver Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Vancouver, Canada, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best accommodations and places to eat in the city center.

Where to Stay in Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a city full of life and that doesn’t stop when it comes to accommodation options either.

After a full day of taking in the incredible Vancouver attractions, you’ll want somewhere perfect to rest your head before heading off again in the morning for more!

For those visiting the city on a budget look no further than HI-Vancouver Downtown .

Located in the city’s West End you’ll be close to the beach, the shops and museums all while enjoying a quiet place to sleep.

The hostel offers a free breakfast which is a nice little bonus, as well as a fully equipped self-contained kitchen if you fancy cooking your own meals.

With a HI-Hostels membership, you’ll not only save on a night’s stay but also a great number of activities offered through the hostelling network.

The Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver’s downtown core has been around since the 1920s.

156 rooms occupy this beautiful hotel that was recently renovated and is now as exceptional as it was the day it opened. 

Rich colours and cozy furniture occupy not only the guestrooms here but can be found throughout the hotel making you feel like you’ve stepped into a home rather than a hotel.

With a scrumptious cafe, divine restaurant and iconic bar onsite you’ll enjoy coming back as much as you did exploring the city.

When it comes to luxury the Fairmont range of hotels knows exactly how to do that.

And nothing could be truer than in Vancouver’s Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel .

Created and opened for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, this luxury property offers up 367 rooms all with state of the art technology.

Add in the beautiful and serene Willowstream spa with an outdoor firepit and packages for all.

The lobby bar and lounge offer up live music most nights to set the mood while you await a world-class dinner at the numerous restaurants.

And to top it all off, the rooftop pool and hot tub situation are spectacular.

Views of the mountains and the city during the day quickly turn even more magical as night falls on a day of Vancouver activities.

Where to Eat in Vancouver, British Columbia

In a city with so many different cultures, it should be no surprise that the food selection showcases that.

From fresh seafood, vegan comfort food, classic Canadian fare, to ramen and sushi options that will have you transported to Asia in one bite.

There is something here for everyone’s taste and everyone’s budget.

Located just a few blocks up from the start of the seawall trail, Marutama Ramen is a cozy corner dedicated to amazing ramen and a great selection of Japanese favourites.

While the space is small, the wait is well worth it for authentic Japanese noodle dishes full of flavour.

With 2 locations (Main street and Gastown) MeeT was created by 3 Vancouverites who wanted to connect people and food.

The menu is plant-based and aims to show diners that a vegan menu is so much more than tofu.

Try the mac and cheez bowl or the oyster mushroom calamari and you’ll see exactly what they mean.

Located at the top of Queen Elizabeth Park, Seasons In The Park this restaurant serves up exquisite food with a spectacular panoramic view of Vancouver.

Impeccable locally sourced ingredients paired with the most thoughtful wine list, this is luxury on a whole different level.

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Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The ultimate guide to yoho national park in canada, guide to buying a car and driving across canada, 7 awesome day trips from montreal (2024 guide), 13 awesome things to do in edmonton, canada, 2 thoughts on “20 amazing things to do in vancouver, bc”.

a very elegant list of to do in the beautiful place like that. really wants to visit this place after reading this.

Thank you Ali. Hope you get to Vancouver one day. It’s an amazing city. Have a good one.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Vancouver

By Jennifer Van Evra

There are a few refrains Vancouverites always hear from travelers: “It’s so beautiful,” “Everybody's so nice here” and “There’s so much to do.” And they’re right on all three counts: surrounded by mountains to one side and the ocean to the other, the stunning city is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. You can ride out to see a pod of killer whales, hike over a jaw-dropping suspension bridge, take a kayak tour, climb a mountain—all 2,830 steps—or simply stroll the seawall in an urban park that’s ranked among the best in the world. But it’s not all about the elements: Vancouver has culture too, and boasts stellar museums, a public market that makes foodie hearts sing, and one of the most acoustically perfect concert halls in North America.

Read our complete Vancouver travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Capilano Suspension Bridge & Park Arrow

For people whose knees shake at the mere thought of walking a wooden suspension bridge 230 feet above terra firma, this is definitely not a top spot, but travelers who love the thrill of heights and gorgeous rainforest views are handsomely rewarded at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. First built as a tourist attraction in 1889, the North Vancouver park continues to draw droves of visitors who stroll the bridge and other high-level offerings.

Prince of Whales Whale Watching Arrow

The Prince of Whales tour is a sure-fire way to get an up-close look at some of British Columbia’s incredible marine life—orca whales, humpbacks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, elephant seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and more. The tours are conservation-focused—no cetacean-chasing cowboys here—and along the way, travelers also pick up fascinating facts about whale biology and behavior, marine conservation, and Vancouver’s history as a port city. Options include three- to five-hour tours from Vancouver or Victoria on a luxury catamaran, or if you’re departing from Victoria or Telegraph Cove, you can get down to water level on a Zodiac tour.

Snowshoe Tour on Cypress Mountain Arrow

If you’re not a downhill diehard or a Nordic racer but still want to find some "Frozen"-level winter magic, the snowshoe tours at Cypress Mountain are well worth the trek from downtown. After a fresh snowfall, there's nothing like walking through a forest of cedars and firs laden with snow, the ground sparkling all around, especially when you have certified guides leading the pack. The tours, which are currently on pause due to the pandemic , typically run daytime and evening, and range from a kid-friendly Hollyburn Meadows tour to the magical evening cheese and chocolate fondue tours. 

Stanley Park Arrow

Regularly heralded as one of the best parks in the world, Vancouver’s 988-acre Stanley Park is larger than the city’s entire downtown core, and is best known for its ocean and mountain views, its beaches and seaside swimming pool, its playgrounds and miniature train, and its walking trails through soaring fir and cedar forests. But it's especially beloved for its six-mile seawall, which draws millions of walkers, joggers, and cyclists every year.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Chan Centre for the Performing Arts Arrow

When visionary Canadian architect Bing Thom designed this University of British Columbia landmark, he hired some of the world’s finest acousticians to create an optimal-sounding space. So it’s no wonder “The Chan,” this performing-arts venue is known, is famous for its impeccable acoustics, which draw top international musicians, many who typically play far larger venues. With curved maple walls, the distinctly modern concert hall is shaped like the inside of a cello, and features a striking 25-ton acoustic canopy over the stage. The lobby is equally breathtaking: floor-to-ceiling glass walls tilt at a perfect angle.

Granville Island Arrow

In the 1970s, a polluted waterfront industrial site got a massive makeover and became one of Vancouver’s most beloved attractions: a tiny island packed with everything from a huge indoor public market and cozy artisan studios, to sunny cafes and a two-level kids’ market that makes little eyes go wide. With butchers, bakers, cheesemongers, florists, tea companies, fishmongers, craftspeople, confectioners, and produce vendors—not to mention a food court filled with delectable local eats—the bustling public market alone can keep your senses rapt for half a day.

Vancouver Aquarium Arrow

Vancouver is surrounded by water, but the best way to get an up-close look at the area’s marine life—as well as aquatic animals from around the globe—is at the Vancouver Aquarium, located in picturesque Stanley Park. For more than 60 years, locals and visitors have flocked to the seaside facility, which houses more than 65,000 animals—sea otters, penguins, sea lions, fish, jellyfish, eels, sea turtles, birds and reptiles—among them Joey the sea otter, Señor Cinco the penguin, and the recently rescued Donnelly the harbor seal. But don’t expect Marineland-style dolphin shows; the Vancouver Aquarium is more focused on education, research, and conservation.

Grouse Mountain Arrow

Towering high behind downtown Vancouver’s gleaming towers, Grouse Mountain—known as “the Peak of Vancouver”—has been a top destination for locals and tourists for more than a century. What you do there depends on the season: in summer you can hike, mountain bike, zipline over the treetops, catch an uber-Canadian lumberjack show, tour a high-tech wind turbine, and meet giant orphaned grizzly bears. In winter it’s skiing, snowshoeing, sliding, ice skating, and other sports that lure snow lovers. And whether summer or winter, the Skyride gondola offers jaw-dropping views of the city, the ocean, the Gulf Islands, and beyond.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Arrow

Step out of the downtown fray and into Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and it feels like you’ve entered an island of calm. Perched at the edge of Chinatown, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is modeled after the Ming Dynasty–era scholar’s gardens in Suzhou, China. It’s also regularly named among the best city gardens on the planet. The serene spot is far from a touristy knockoff, too. A collaboration between governments in Canada and China, the garden and structures were designed and built by 53 Suzhou specialists using rare trees and prized rocks shipped in from Asia.

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Arrow

With its soaring totem poles, cedar canoes, bentwood boxes, Indigenous masks, sculptures, ceramics, weavings, and more, Vancouver’s Museum of Anthropology, or MOA, is the city’s most beloved museum, making it a must-see for visitors and locals alike. Designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, the iconic 1976 building is considered a modernist masterpiece, and regularly draws architecture buffs. Located on the University of British Columbia campus, MOA is also an academic institution that houses close to 50,000 ethnographic objects, as well as 535,000 archaeological objects in its building alone.

VanDusen Botanical Garden Arrow

An Elizabethan hedge maze made of 3,000 pyramidal cedars, an Instagram-ready walkway under glowing yellow laburnum blooms, more than 7,500 plant species from every continent, and a picturesque lake are just a few of the features that have kept travelers and nature-loving locals flocking to the 55-acre VanDusen Botanical Garden for more than half a century. Just don’t expect highly arranged and coiffed gardens of annuals; this place is purely perennials, and although they are beautifully arranged, they still have a wild side.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park Arrow

Pacific Spirit Regional Park is the real deal: more than 2,000 acres of wild, Douglas fir–forested lands vivisected by almost 50 miles of trails (including 22 miles suitable for bikes and horses), much of it set along the waters of the Georgia Straight. It’s a bit out of the way—the University of British Columbia is at Vancouver’s westernmost reaches—but it’s one of the city’s best gems. Don't miss Wreck Beach, Vancouver’s legendary clothing-optional beach.

The Commodore Ballroom Arrow

First, you don’t just walk in off the street and have a pint at The Commodore—it’s a performance venue, so you’ll have to buy a ticket to gain entry. A true piece of local history, the downtown Granville Street club dates back to the 1920s, although the 1,000-seat bar really came of age in the 1970s, when visiting bands ranging from the Police and The Ramones to KISS, David Bowie, and Tina Turner played here. Vancouver’s answer to the Sunset Strip’s Whiskey-a-Go-Go is truly one of the finest live venues in North America.

Queen Elizabeth Park Arrow

Built in on a former quarry 500 feet above sea level, the 130-acre Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest vantage point in Vancouver, with extraordinary views that extend to the North Shore Mountains and beyond. But there’s more to Queen E, as locals call it, than just the vistas. With manicured lawns and impeccably groomed flowering plant beds, the gardens are the main draw. There's also the Bloedel Conservatory, an exotic plant and bird arboretum contained within a geodesic dome, and Seasons in the Park Restaurant, a destination dining spot.

Chinatown Arrow

The neighborhood draws every type, from locals who have been shopping there for generations to upscale foodies checking out the latest culinary hotspots, and from history buffs to authentic culture seekers. It absolutely lives up to the hype, and makes you want to learn more—especially if you soak in the serenity of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, discover the neighborhood’s history at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, check out thought-provoking art at the Rennie Museum, and treat yourself to a world of food and drink. If you’re ever in town during Chinese New Year, it’s also well worth catching the parade.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Vancouver Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Vancouver is one of my favorite cities in the world . It has the best of both worlds: you can be in an urban environment one second and then, a few minutes later you can be out in the wilderness hiking beautiful mountains.

With its world-class food scene, tasty craft breweries, popular markets on Granville Island, and incredible art scene, Vancouver is a city worth exploring.

The city is rich in history, has amazing Chinese and Japanese food, relaxing beautiful parks, and high quality of life. In fact, it consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in the world! Sure, it’s not cheap, but the best things never are!

There are only a few places I’d live in the world, but Vancouver is one of them. Take the time to explore. Don’t rush your visit. It’s worth it.

This travel guide to Vancouver can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vancouver

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Vancouver

1. Explore Grouse Mountain

This is Vancouver’s number one outdoor attraction and North America’s third-largest park. Take the gondola up to the top where you can enjoy endless views over the city and mountains. In the summer, you can hike, and in the winter, ski or snowboard. It’s free to hike up but the gondola down is 20 CAD. Try to go during the week as it gets very busy on the weekends. At the summit, there are more hiking trails, rope courses for kids, a lumberjack show, and more.

2. Wander Granville Island

Granville Island is a peninsula and shopping district in the middle of the city, but it’s also a hub for food and drink enthusiasts. There is something for everyone there, from Vancouver’s first organic bakery, Artisan Sake maker, fine cheese, and Patisseries, to homemade sweet and savory tasty pies. Explore the market, grab a beer at Granville Island Brewing Company, and wander the cool shops. There are many independent theater companies and non-profit art education centers with ongoing activities or performances. In the summer, watch the boats, stand-up paddlers, and kayakers. The Public Market is open 7 days a week from 9am-6pm.

3. Relax in Stanley Park

Located right in the city center, Vancouver’s largest park is an escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Its waterfront path right on the Pacific is a favorite for locals who enjoy hiking, biking, and rollerblading. You won’t even notice that you’re in a city. The area itself spans 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest of beautiful trails, trees, wildlife, and more. Ride the Stanley Park old locomotive train or if you’re feeling sporty, Jo-e Cycles in Stanley Park has bike rentals starting at 7 CAD an hour, 24 CAD for a half-day (5 hours), and 32 CAD for a full day. The price includes a bike, lock, and helmet, as well as a map to get you started. Bike tours are available too.

4. Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge

This 137-meter-long (450-foot) suspension bridge over the Capilano River is not for anyone who is afraid of heights — it stands (or wobbles) 70 meters (230 feet) above the Capilano River! The bridge, surrounding trails, and lush forest scenery make for one of my favorite trips. Get your tickets online here .

5. Go whale watching

Other things to see and do in vancouver, 1. watch a sporting event.

This city is full of sporting events. If you like football, there’s the BC Lions. And if hockey is your sport, check out a Vancouver Canucks game (hockey is the national winter sport so don’t miss a chance to catch a game). During the summer, Vancouverites are passionate about the White Caps soccer team. In short, there’s always something going on!

2. Hike in Lynn Canyon Park

This park makes for a fun and free half-day trip. There’s a suspension bridge, mini-hikes, swimming holes, and waterfalls around Lynn Creek. It’s a good alternative to the crowded Capilano, even if the bridge isn’t quite as tall — it’s “only” 45 meters (150 feet) high. However, it offers a bird’s eye view of the fast-paced river and rapids, waterfalls, and pools. There are also several beautiful nature trails, from the Baden Powell North Shore region trail, with its 30 Foot Pool swimming hole where you can picnic and take a dip during hot weather, and the less accessible and yet less crowded Twin Falls Trail with a beautiful waterfall and crystal clear pool.

3. Stroll down Robson Street

Robson Street’s history dates to the late 19th century, when it was one of the first major streets in the city. It’s the street to go to for dining, window shopping, and people-watching. The street’s international history has evolved over the years; it was once called Robsonstrasse by the area’s German community. Today, you can still enjoy a ton of international flavors here, with ramen shops next to taquerias, along with plenty of hip cafes and sushi spots. Sit down at an izakaya (Japanese pub) and take it all in.

4. Let it hang out at Wreck Beach

As the only nude beach in the city, Wreck Beach is a clothing-optional space for hanging out, sunbathing, swimming, and playing music. This is one of the last remaining places to embody the free-spiritedness that Vancouver was famous for in the 1970s. It’s located in Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Be respectful and don’t take photos without consent.

5. Take a food tour

Vancouver is a foodie destination. Taste Vancouver Food Tours runs tours that focus on specific neighborhoods like Gastown and Little Italy. You’ll get to eat at up to eight different places, tasting local favorites like pork belly crackling, tempura bacon eggs, and more. Tickets start at about 95 CAD for a delicious 2.5-hour tour.

6. Eat at the Richmond Night Market

Between May and September, one of the coolest spots in the city is the Richmond Night Market. Inspired by markets throughout Asia, the Richmond Night Market combines Asian food, culture, and shopping. Snacks range from dumplings to meat on a stick, and everything in between. Admission is 5 CAD with food prices ranging from 2-11 CAD. Most vendors are cash only. Bring an appetite! The Richmond Night Market is currently closed until April 2023.

7. Explore the Vancouver Art Gallery

The collection of national and international contemporary artwork here is phenomenal. With over 12,000 works of art, you could easily spend an entire afternoon here. There’s a whole exhibit devoted to Emily Carr, British Columbia’s favorite historical artist, and all kinds of events take place here, including late-night parties with live music. Tickets are 29 CAD ( get your ticket online here ). Tuesdays from 5pm-8pm they have a special pay-what-you-can option available.

8. Go to The Lookout

Located in the downtown Harbour Centre, the Lookout Tower is 131 meters (430 feet) high and the perfect place to admire the city. You’ll be whisked to the observation deck in a glass elevator for panoramic views over Vancouver, the mountains, and the ocean. Tickets are 18 CAD (a href=”https://www.getyourguide.com/vancouver-l189/vancouver-lookout-all-day-admission-observation-deck-t19796/?partner_id=LLKQJ38&cmp=TTDVancouver” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow noopener noreferrer”>get your ticket online here ).

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

The first authentic classical Chinese garden built outside of China, National Geographic named this urban sanctuary the top city garden in the world. Covered walkways, ponds filled with koi, 150-year-old miniature trees, and tai hu rock (a porous limestone) from China all tie together to create a tranquil spot to walk and reflect. It was built using 14th-century methods, without power tools, glue, or screws. Admission is 16 CAD.

10. Explore Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, having grown from a single tavern founded in 1867. Nowadays, it’s a trendy place full of restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and bars (like The Flying Pig and Rodney’s Oyster House). Take a walk down the cobblestone streets by the old historic buildings, admire the Gastown Steam Clock (a clock powered by steam), and visit the statue of Gassy Jack Deighton (the man who started the tavern all those years ago). The Vancouver International Jazz Festival takes place here every summer. Food tours are also available around the neighborhood. Taste Vancouver runs a 2.5-hour tour that visits 8 tasty locations for 95 CAD per person.

11. Visit Yaletown

Yaletown is a recently converted industrial neighborhood that’s now home to some of the city’s most popular eateries and pubs. Drink a beer and get a hearty meal at the lively Yaletown Brewing Company, voted Best Brewpub in Canada. Spend some time wandering around or having a picnic at David Lam Park or George Wainborn Park, walk along the Seawall, admire the street art, or grab lunch on one of the neighborhood’s patios.

12. Sail around the shores of Vancouver with the Aquabus

If you’ve done enough walking, Vancouver’s family-owned Aquabus is a great way to sail around False Creek, marveling at the skyline from a unique perspective. The 13 aqua bus ferries are frequent (every 15 minutes or so) and stop at 8 different locations including Hornby Street, Granville Island, David Lam Park, Stamps Landing, Spyglass Place, Yaletown, Plaza of Nations, and The Village. You can get a full-day pass with unlimited trips for 15 CAD.

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Vancouver Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs 40-45 CAD per night. Private rooms start at 90 CAD but average closer to 120 CAD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for 10-30 CAD per night. This gets you a basic pitch for two people without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels in the center of town cost around 150 CAD. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, coffee/tea maker, and AC.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Vancouver. A private room starts at around 60-75 CAD per night while an entire home/apartment starts at 120 CAD but expect to pay around 165-200 CAD per night unless you book really early.

Food – Cuisine here varies widely from region to region in Canada. Overall, the food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. In Vancouver, seafood is super popular since the city is right on the ocean. Asian food is also a huge local favorite, owing to the large Asian-Canadian population that calls the city home.

As a huge cosmopolitan hub, Vancouver has everything from Vietnamese banh mi for 6 CAD, to hearty all-day breakfasts for less than 10 CAD, to Jamaican patties for 3-4 CAD each. Quality sushi is super affordable, with bento boxes costing as little as 12 CAD while big bowls of ramen go for 13 CAD. Cambodian noodles are as little as 8.25 CAD.

A combo meal at McDonald’s costs about 12 CAD. A meal at an inexpensive casual restaurant is about 20 CAD for a burger and fries with a drink. A beer costs another 7 USD.

A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 60 CAD for a multi-course meal and a drink while a latte/cappuccino costs around 5 CAD while bottled water is 2.40 CAD.

If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 50-65 CAD on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat.

Some of my favorite places to eat in the city are Ask for Luigi, Honey Salt, Ramen Danbo, Phnom Penh, and the market on Granville Island.

Backpacking Vancouver Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Vancouver, expect to spend about 75 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, taking public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and doing most free activities like hiking and hanging out in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add another 10-20 CAD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 165 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like taking the gondola up Grouse Mountain or going whale watching.

On a “luxury” budget of 320 CAD or more per day in Vancouver, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Vancouver Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vancouver is not just one of the most expensive cities in Canada — it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world!!! Fortunately, there are a few ways you can lower your costs. Here are some ways to save money when you’re in Vancouver:

• Take advantage of the free parks and gardens – If you want to enjoy the city but not spend a lot of money, pack a picnic and stroll around the many parks and gardens the city has to offer.
• Get discounted attraction tickets – Destinationvancouver.com has a deals section on its website that lists current discounts to popular and lesser-known attractions. Check them out for potential savings.
• Look for the happy hours – The Ultimate Happy Hours website lists all the happy hour drink and food specials around Vancouver. It’s updated with new info frequently!
• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery on a Tuesday – After 5pm on Tuesdays, admission to the Vancouver Art Gallery is by donation only (10 CAD is recommended).
• Indulge at food trucks – Vancouver loves the food-truck scene, and there’s no better way to sample different cuisines on a budget. Streetfoodapp.com lists current locations and opening hours for all the trucks.
• Stay with a local – Cut down on your costs by using Couchsurfing . You’ll get a free place to stay and get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice. Just be sure to send your request early during the summer as that’s prime tourist season.
• Bundle your tickets – Vancouverattractions.com lets you purchase tickets in advance, and you can save up to 30% when you buy even just two tickets. This includes popular attractions like the Capilano bridge and The Lookout.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver only has a few hostels to choose from. Here are two of my recommended places to stay:

• Cambie Hostel Gastown
• Samesun Vancouver

How to Get Around Vancouver

Public transportation – The Canada Line and SkyTrain Rapid Transit systems are the most common ways to get around Vancouver. These trains cover just about anywhere you need to go. A one-way ticket costs 3.10-6.05 CAD, depending on the number of zones you travel.

You can also purchase a Compass Card to load with money, which requires a 6 CAD deposit to activate. You can order online, by phone, or at one of the station’s vending machines. Fares are 2.50 CAD for one zone, 3.65 CAD for two zones, or 4.70 CAD for three zones.

A day pass is 11 CAD for all zones. Use Translink.ca to find schedules and plan your route.

The Canada Line is by far the smartest way to get to and from the airport. It’s just an additional 5 CAD on top of the regular zone fare.

Vancouver’s bus system works just like the trains, but they only operate on a one-zone fare. Cash tickets are not transferable to the SeaBus or the train, but you can use your Compass Card on the bus.

SeaBus, also run by Translink.ca, is a passenger-only ferry connecting Downtown Vancouver with the North Shore. Fares are the same as SkyTrain.

Taxi – Taxis here are not cheap. Their base rate is 3.75 CAD, and it’s an additional 1.89 CAD per kilometer afterward. Skip the taxis if you’re on a budget.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are available.

Bicycle – Vancouver is very bike-friendly, and there are plenty of bicycle rental businesses around town. The public bike rental system is Mobi, which costs 15 CAD per day for unlimited 30-minute rides. Spokes Bicycles and Cycle Vancouver offer longer rentals, with a day rental costing about 35-40 CAD or 8.57 CAD for an hourly rate.

When to Go to Vancouver

Vancouver is busiest in the summer. It’s hot and sunny all the time (although June can be rainy), with temperatures averaging around 25°C (78°F) per day. Everyone makes the most of the gorgeous weather and the city comes to life with people enjoying the great outdoors. This is when accommodation rates are the highest, however.

Spring can be cool and rainy in comparison, but April and May are prime whale-watching months. In the fall, September is still warm and ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities. Prices are lower during the shoulder seasons, and there are fewer crowds. Overall, the shoulder seasons make the best time to visit.

Winters in Vancouver are mild and wet, with temperatures averaging around 6°C (42°F). However, from here you can hit the slopes around Grouse Mountain or head out to Whistler. Vancouver has some of the best snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding in Canada!

How to Stay Safe in Vancouver

Vancouver is very safe, and you’re unlikely to experience violent crime during your visit. Your greatest risk is a petty crime, like pickpocketing or theft. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially when on crowded public transportation.

Be cautious around Downtown Eastside. Avoid walking through here alone at night as it’s a bit sketchy.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs in the city.

Scams are rare in Vancouver but, if you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about the common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Vancouver Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Vancouver Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Canada and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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25 Epic Things to Do in Vancouver (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in vancouver: the 25 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Vancouver during your next trip?

Great idea!

Nestled between ocean and mountains , this western Canadian city boasts an exceptional location . It offers a bounty of varied natural landscapes and a wealth of activities to dive into.

Whether you’re there in winter, summer, autumn or spring , you’ll always find something to do in Vancouver!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 25 best things to do in Vancouver , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Vancouver in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Vancouver? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Downtown Vancouver

2. the vancouver lookout, 3. whale and orca watching, 4. stanley park, 5. vancouver aquarium, 6. canada place, 7. the flyover canada, 8. granville island, 9. the museum of anthropology in vancouver, 10. flying over vancouver in a seaplane, 11. chinatown and dr. sun yat-sen’s chinese garden, 12. the vandusen botanical garden, 13. shopping in vancouver, 14. vancouver’s beaches, 15. the seawall, 16. more activity and visit ideas in vancouver, 17.  what to do in vancouver with the family, 18. watch a hockey game in vancouver, 19. capilano suspension bridge, 20. lynn canyon park, 21. grouse mountain, 22. victoria, 23. deep cove, 24. burnaby, 25. whistler, how long should you visit vancouver for, one day in vancouver, 2 days in vancouver, 3 days in vancouver, where to stay in vancouver, where to eat in vancouver, how to get to vancouver, vancouver tourist map, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you.

Visiting Vancouver and its surrounding area is about uncovering a city consistently listed amongst the world’s best places to live .

Nestled between ocean and mountains , this western Canadian city boasts an exceptional location . It offers a bounty of varied natural landscapes and a wealth of activities to dive into. Whether you’re there in winter, summer, or spring, you’ll always find something to do in Vancouver!

To help you organize your trip to Canada , I’ve prepared a comprehensive guide of all the must-see spots in Vancouver .

And to make the most of your visits, you’ll find our itinerary advice for exploring Vancouver and its environs over 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days plus my pick of the best accommodations .

So, what are the best things to do and see in Vancouver? Where to stay

Visit Vancouver: All must-see attractions

To kick off your Vancouver exploration and soak up the local atmosphere, nothing beats a little jaunt downtown . That’s where you can admire the skyscrapers and find yourself in the heart of the city’s bustle .

I particularly recommend these 2 neighborhoods :

1) Gastown, Vancouver’s historic district , to see some of the city’s most beautiful Victorian buildings . You can take a photo in front of the “Steam Clock” , a steam-operated clock that whistles every 15 minutes. The neighborhood is super cool with lots of open-air cafes and restaurants, perfect if you’re peckish.

2) Yaletown, the trendy and chill neighborhood.

Formerly a warehouse district, they’ve been renovated to house loads of little shops and many of Vancouver’s top restaurants .

The nightlife there is buzzing, the ideal place to go in Vancouver to party .

To miss nothing of Vancouver and benefit from a guide’s insights, you should go for a guided tour .

You’ll not only visit Gastown , but also Chinatown, Granville Island, Stanley Park, Canada Place, the Vancouver Lookout, and Robson Street (all Vancouver essentials!).

This is the best guided tour to discover Vancouver.

You can book it by clicking on the button below:

Every big city must have its observation tower and Vancouver is no exception.

Toronto has the CN Tower, Vancouver has the Vancouver Lookout ! The building is located near Gastown’s Steam Clock and just 5 minutes from the Waterfront.

In just 40 seconds with a glass elevator, you’ll ascend to 170 meters to view the city . An unbeatable 360° panorama awaits you.

Plus, there’s a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower , where you can munch your way around the city in just one hour without leaving your seat. It’s pretty cool!

Your ticket to the tower is valid for the entire day, so you can pop in and out – maybe once in the morning and then again at sunset . What a delightful idea!

If you’re keen on experiencing Vancouver’s premier tourist spot, I strongly advise grabbing your skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid the pesky queues. Just hit that green button below:

Vancouver is brimming with companies offering whale and orca watching tours.

I especially recommend this half-day boat trip provided by GetYourGuide and operated by a local tour company . The departure point is right in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

You’ll embark on a 4-hour covered boat cruise on a quest to spot orcas and whales!

From start to finish, you’re taken care of – your only worry is snapping the perfect shot of these impressive sea mammals. It’ll be an unforgettable part of your Vancouver adventure, and only for €143 per person !

Advanced booking is required – just click the button below:

In major Anglo-Saxon cities, it’s a common sight to find a “ green lung ” where nature thrives amidst the urban landscape: Montreal boasts Mount-Royal Park, while New York has its iconic Central Park.

In Vancouver, it’s Stanley Park where you can enjoy a stroll and take in some nature. This enormous 400-hectare park is an absolute must-visit for a gorgeous waterfront walk. It offers stunning panoramas of the city and coast.

The place is also popular with joggers and cyclists . I recommend renting a bike if you want to see all the park has to offer – it’s definitely the best way to explore!

You’ll simply follow the 9km Seawall promenade that circles the park .

During your park tour, I suggest making a few pit stops :

• At Brockton Point to see the Native American totems (a standalone tourist site in Vancouver)
• At Siwash Rock
• To see the “Girl In Wetsuit” sculpture
• The Viewpoint, to admire Lions Gate Bridge.

And if you want to make sure you don’t miss a thing, there are guided bike tours of Stanley Park available. Find all the details by clicking the button below :

If you rent a bike, make sure to follow the park’s traffic flow – only counter-clockwise circulation is allowed!

Located within Stanley Park, you’ll find the Vancouver Aquarium. This is a perfect spot to visit in Vancouver with kids !

Canada’s largest aquarium , it is home to over 65,000 animals including dolphins, otters, and penguins. Here, you can discover the unique wildlife of the West Coast and Pacific Ocean .

As the aquarium is a much-loved Vancouver attraction , so you’d better purchase your skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid queues. Your ticket even gives you access to the 4D theatre , where you can catch a short and immersive film.

Book your tickets for the Vancouver Aquarium by clicking on the button below:

Canada Place is a truly cool Vancouver spot for a walk along the Waterfront. This national monument boasts a unique architectural design with its five white sails evoking a ship.

It’s as if you’re wandering around a ship’s deck. The Canadian Trail is divided into sections representing the provinces and territories of Canada.

You’ll also get to enjoy views of Stanley Park and the mountains .

Continuing your stroll along the Waterfront, don’t forget to snap a photo of the gigantic Olympic Cauldron created for the 2010 Olympic Games, and the Digital Orca , a giant pixel art orca. Something you won’t see anywhere else on your Canadian journey !

Nested within Canada Place, there’s a must-do attraction on your Vancouver tour: the FlyOver Canada .

This ride offers you the chance to soar over Canadian landscapes and cities in just 8 minutes! Don’t sweat it, you’ll be comfy in your seat while you live out this 4D experience .

Thanks to a massive screen, dynamic seats, and wind effects, you’ll feel like you’re touring Canada by plane . It’s super well-done, and the sensory experience is truly immersive!

To ensure your spot, it’s essential to book your session for FlyOver Canada in advance . Don’t wait, secure your experience by clicking the green button below:

Next on our Vancouver journey is Granville Island .

The main highlight of Granville is its massive covered market . You can find loads of fresh products (fruits, veggies, cheeses) and local goods at affordable prices.

I recommend going there for lunch as there’s also a large food court offering dishes from cuisines around the world. Indian, Mexican, American, Chinese, there’s something for everyone.

You can then enjoy your meal outside, by the water . Don’t forget to pair your meal with a good beer, as there are plenty of microbreweries in Granville .

If you prefer, you can also opt for a 2-hour guided tour of the market including tastings. Info and reservations right here !

Granville is also the perfect place to hunt in vintage shops and look for original and unique creations made by local artisans.

To get to the island, you can take the Aquabus which will get you from Hornby Street to the shores of Granville.

If you’re a museum lover, I suggest you visit the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver (MOA). You’ll find it on the University of Vancouver campus.

The museum traces the history of the “First Nations” , the indigenous peoples of British Columbia and Canada.

Vancouver attaches particular importance to this and as you stroll around the surrounding cities, you’ll see that the town names are also indicated in First Nations’ languages.

This is a truly interesting museum to see in Vancouver that presents more than 16,000 objects related to the first peoples and other cultures around the world, especially from China and Africa.

You’ll see an impressive collection of totems , similar to those in the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa .

Info for your visit is on the official website .

For a unique activity in Vancouver, I recommend a city tour by seaplane .

It’s the perfect way to discover the city from a unique angle , original and unprecedented.

You should book your excursion right away with GetYourGuide.

This 20-minute flight will take you over the whole city, parks, and beaches of Vancouver . You’ll fly with Harbour Air, the local company with the largest seaplane fleet. Safety standards are top-notch.

For a little over €100 per person, you can have a unique experience during your Canadian escape . As always, just click on the button to book this great Vancouver activity:

You’re going to Vancouver?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Vancouver 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Vancouver on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Vancouver.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Seville, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Vancouver!

Another commonality shared with cities like New York and Montreal, among the main attractions in Vancouver, is Chinatown .

Like in all Chinatowns around the world, you’ll find good, affordable Chinese restaurants and can buy your souvenirs at the most reasonable prices in town.

In Chinatown, I especially recommend visiting Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden or Classical Chinese Garden . Fun fact: it’s the first Chinese garden to be built outside China.

The garden is absolutely beautiful and hosts several events according to the season, including Chinese New Year celebrations. It offers a lovely display of flora as well as Chinese architecture . It’s really a nice place for a walk.

Tickets for the Chinese Garden are on sale here!

Another must-see garden in Vancouver: the VanDusen Botanical Garden . It’s located south of the city , a bit away from the center.

This 55-hectare garden is enormous and considered one of the most beautiful gardens in North America .

You can stroll amongst 7,500 varieties of plants and trees from around the world. The garden is artistically designed with waterfalls, fountains, wooden bridges, several ponds, and even a maze . Amazing!

If you want to visit the botanical garden during your Vancouver holiday , you should buy your ticket in advance here !

During your trip to Vancouver, you’ll probably want to do some shopping .

You’ll find your bliss along Robson Street, the commercial artery of downtown Vancouver. All major brands are represented, but there are also cool and original small shops and souvenir stores. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Further from downtown, you can also visit Metrotown, the 3rd largest shopping center in Canada or the Park Royal Shopping Centre located in a pleasant setting by the ocean.

Vancouver has many beaches for a relaxing afternoon of swimming, reading by the water, or playing beach volleyball.

Here’s a quick tour of where to go in Vancouver:

• Sunset beach – true to its name for enjoying the sunset.
• Second beach – featuring a long outdoor heated pool.
• Third beach (okay, they didn’t strain themselves for the name 😋 ).
• English Bay Beach – also known for its sunset and the 14 funny statues you’ll find there.
• Kistilano beach
• Wreck Beach, a “clothing optional beach,” meaning you can swim either in a swimsuit or naked! It has a peace-and-love vibe.
• Ambleside Beach and its view of the Lions Gate Bridge.
• Jericho Beach
• Spanisk Banks beach.

Let’s keep this Vancouver travel guide rolling with the Seawall, a lengthy promenade that hugs the ocean’s edge for nearly 22 kilometers .

You can either walk it or bike it .

Indeed, the Seawall is split into 2 zones throughout : one for pedestrians and one for cyclists. The whole path is one-way and should only be taken counter-clockwise.

The walk kicks off from Canada Place , passes through Stanley Park for 9 km (which I mentioned earlier), False Creek, Science World, Granville , and ends up at Kitsilano Beach .

Let’s beef up this list of things to do in Vancouver with a few more visit suggestions . Just click the orange links to book:

• Vancouver hop-on hop-off bus tour . 24h or 48h pass with included English audio guide.
• Commentated one-hour cruise in Vancouver’s harbor
• Sunset cruise in Vancouver with included buffet dinner. Duration: 2h30
• Gastown foodie tour + Food and drink tastings. Duration: 2h30
• Guided walking tour themed around the city’s dark history with a professional actor.
• Vancouver Art Gallery admission ticket.
• Vancouver Museum ticket exploring civic history.
• Ticket for Vancouver Maritime Museum.

Aside from the aquarium and FlyOver Canada, I suggest you visit Science World, the science museum.

It hosts various permanent interactive exhibits and fun activities where kids can learn more about fundamental physics concepts like light or sound. And for dinosaur enthusiasts, there are even awesome reconstructions !

Book your ticket for Science World right here:

Another fun idea for a family outing in Vancouver is Playland .

Playland is Canada’s oldest amusement park. Don’t worry, though, all the rides are modern and regularly updated!

It’s located in Hastings Park . There, you’ll find traditional roller coasters and other thrill rides . There are also rides for younger kids.

A great way to have a delightful time with your family during your Canadian holiday.

Still wondering what to do in Vancouver?

During your road trip in Canada , I highly recommend attending a hockey match at least once.

You’ll see that Canadians take their national sport seriously — the atmosphere during the matches is incredible.

In Vancouver, you should root for the Canucks, the local team . While shopping, don’t forget to grab a team jersey. It’ll make a great souvenir later!

Best things to do around Vancouver

If you’re planning to stay in Vancouver for several days , I recommend taking the opportunity to explore the surrounding area.

Here are my picks for the most beautiful places to see around Vancouver .

One of the most popular attractions near Vancouver is the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

It’s about 15 minutes from downtown .

At the park, you can trot across the iconic suspension bridge that hangs over the canyon , all 137 meters of it, and perched 70 meters up high ! Just a heads up, the more folks on it, the more it swings, so if you’re prone to vertigo, you’ve been warned!

You can also stroll along the trails, embark on a treetop adventure, and walk on the cliffwalk, a wooden platform hanging out in the void.

Don’t wait any longer! Book your Capilano Park entrance ticket now by clicking the green button below:

To get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, hop on the free shuttle departing from Canada Place .

The Lynn Canyon Park is a bit like the Capilano Suspension Bridge but in the free version . It’s a fantastic alternative for sightseeing.

The Lynn Canyon Park is about twenty kilometers from downtown and you can easily get there by public transportation , which is super convenient.

You can also cross a suspension bridge – sure, it’s smaller and not as high as its big brother, but it’s still pretty cool.

You can also go hiking on one of the many trails set in the midst of the forest and enjoy a picnic in a tranquil and nature-filled spot.

Access information is right here .

If you’ve decided to visit Vancouver over the weekend , you could head to Lynn Canyon Park on an organized excursion . A bus will pick you up directly from your downtown hotel, and then you’ll get a guided tour in the park .

The detailed information about this excursion around Vancouver is available by clicking here !

Another iconic point of interest to visit near Vancouver is Grouse Mountain .

Located 20 minutes from Vancouver , Grouse Mountain offers a ton of activities:

• If you’re wondering what to do in Vancouver in winter, it’s a ski resort with some slopes offering a breathtaking view of the city .
• And in summer, you can hike, zip-line, paraglide, and even watch a lumberjack show where they chop logs faster than their shadows (promise, it’s not a joke!).

To get there, take the free shuttle from Canada Place , which will take you to the base of the cable car , at the bottom of Grouse Mountain.

Once you arrive and to avoid queuing , it’s better to have booked your cable car ticket in advance . You can do it right now by clicking on this button:

If you don’t have a car, it’s possible to visit Grouse Mountain and Capilano Bridge in the same day , thanks to an organized excursion and round-trip transport from Vancouver. It’s really very practical to see a maximum of things in one day.

Here is the link with the information:

If you’ve had your fill of Vancouver, I’ll invite you to take a trip over to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia . This place is a must-visit when you’re on a tour of western Canada.

You’ll find it at the southern end of Vancouver Island . To get there you have several options:

• By ferry from Vancouver (departing from Tsawwassen).

And hey, make sure to book your crossing in advance (this also includes a bus transfer from the city centre to the ferry terminal):

• Or for the thrill-seekers, how about getting there by seaplane ? Way faster than the ferry and the perfect way to soak up the landscape! Book here !

Victoria exudes a distinctively English charm , think Victorian houses with blooming gardens and grand old buildings.

In Victoria, here’s what I recommend you check out:

• The stunning Empress Hotel
• The Parliament
• The Royal BC museum
• Fisherman’s Wharf, a floating village of colourful houses
• Beacon Hill Park

You can also take day tours from Vancouver to visit Victoria . They include a visit to the beautiful Butchart Gardens and a journey through the historic centre of Victoria .

Just hit the button below to book:

Located about 15km north of Vancouver is the quaint seaside village of Deep Cove .

A popular vacation spot for Vancouverites. The village is delightfully charming with its waterside homes.

You can indulge in various water sports, with kayaking being a firm favourite. And why not take a scenic walk on the hiking trails, especially the one that leads to Quarry Rock for a breathtaking view over Deep Cove .

In the vicinity of Vancouver, Burnaby is another lovely place to check out.

Here, a typical 1920s village has been recreated, complete with all its shops : bakery, post office, church, school, and even a blacksmith and a printing press…

You’ll be greeted by villagers in period costumes . And you can also peek inside the heritage houses, old buildings listed as city heritage.

Though the village has a retro vibe , it’s this charm that makes it truly special.

Whistler is a renowned ski resort located about 2 hours drive from Vancouver.

It’s one of the largest ski resorts in North America , famous for hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Apart from skiing, there’s a whole range of activities such as hiking trails, spas, golf courses , and plenty of shops, along with bars and restaurants .

In winter, you can also try your hand at snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snowshoeing .

You can find all the necessary information on the resort’s website .

From Vancouver, organized tours are available to visit Whistler as well as the Shannon Falls provincial park (including a ride on the famous Sea to Sky Gondola). Click here for more details !

I’d say, you should set aside at least 3 days to explore Vancouver , particularly if you’re keen to venture beyond city boundaries to spots like Capilano Bridge or Grouse Mountain.

And if you really want to soak up the city and its surrounding areas, 5 days won’t be excessive.

Now, I’m excited to present my suggested itineraries for exploring Vancouver in 1, 2, or 3 days !

If you’ve got just one day to tour Vancouver , here’s my suggested itinerary :

• Kick-off in Vancouver’s historic neighborhood, Gastown
• Check out Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden and seize the opportunity to wander around Chinatown
• Stroll over to Canada Place and try out FlyOver Canada
• Lunch break
• Spend the afternoon exploring Stanley Park (by foot or on a bike)
• Head up to Vancouver Lookout at the end of the day to catch the sunset
• Dine and enjoy the evening in the Yaletown neighborhood , home to some of Vancouver’s best eateries

To explore Vancouver in 2 days , just pick up where day 1 left off and add:

• A city flyover via seaplane for a unique Canadian experience
• Head to Granville Island to stock up on local products
• Lunch break: either a picnic option with the goodies you’ve bought from the market, or a “world cuisine” option by grabbing a dish from the massive market’s food court
• Visit the Museum of Anthropology to learn about the history of the First Nations
• Stop by Wreck Beach (right next to the museum)
• Walk through VanDusen Botanical Garden
• Wrap up the day with some shopping on Robson Street

To see Vancouver in 3 days, simply follow the itineraries from the previous 2 days. Then, I’d suggest a few options depending on your interests and budget .

• Spend half the day whale watching
• An afternoon at the Capilano Suspension Bridge or the Lynn Canyon Park for a budget-friendly alternative
• Spend the morning at Capilano or Lynn Canyon
• Afternoon at Grouse Mountain or Deep Cove (closer to Lynn Canyon)
• Spend the day in Victoria , reachable by ferry from Vancouver . Considering the round-trip will take about 4 hours, you might choose to spend a night in Victoria and head back to Vancouver the next morning.
• If you’re in Vancouver during the winter and you’re a fan of skiing, you could go skiing in Whistler or even try snowmobiling .

Of course, if you’re spending more than 3 days in Vancouver, you could dedicate a day to each of these 4 options . There’s so much to do, you could easily spend 4-5 days, even a week, in and around Vancouver . That way, you won’t have to pick and choose – you can see it all!

• Samesun Vancouver : This funky youth hostel is right in the middle of the city, a stone’s throw away from Yaletown district. Bunk in a dorm from €40, breakfast included. Strong points: location in the city centre, the vibrant atmosphere, comfy beds, and a cracking breakfast with muffins and bagels. A top-notch pick for budget-friendly accommodations in Vancouver !
• The Sylvia Hotel : Located just a two-minute stroll from Stanley Park and a minute from the beach. Spacious and bright double rooms starting at €120 per night. Strong points: prime location, friendly staff, and the authentic charm of the place.
• Blue Horizon Hotel : This gem is on Robson Street, the main shopping artery of Vancouver. Super spacious, comfy double room with a killer view from €170. Strong points: fantastic location to explore Vancouver by foot, the view, plenty of shops and restaurants close by, room comfort. My favorite for its value for money In my opinion, the best hotel in Vancouver.
• The St Regis Hotel : Nestled right in downtown, a hop, skip, and a jump away from Vancouver Lookout. Spacious and cozy double rooms from €240 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: optimal location, helpful and warm staff, room comfort, and a scrumptious and plentiful breakfast.
• Rosewood Hotel Georgia : A splendid 5-star hotel in downtown Vancouver offering beautifully decorated rooms from €350 per night. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, spa, and top-notch services. The best hotel in Vancouver for a luxury stay !

• Salmon n’Bannock Bistro : Located on West Broadway Street. The restaurant serves authentic Indigenous cuisine. The dishes are creative, generous, and beautifully presented. Bison burgers, elk, wild salmon with maple syrup – it’s all mouth-wateringly good.
• Gotham Steakhouse & Cocktail : Situated on Seymour Street. As the name suggests, the restaurant dishes up meaty mains. The meat is superb, tasty, well-seasoned, and cooked to perfection. A tad pricey, but hey, you get what you pay for.
• Ramen Danbo : Located on Robson Street. The restaurant specializes in Ramen. The cool thing is that you get to choose your soup base, noodle thickness, seasoning, and the amount of meat in your soup! The dishes are delicious, hearty, and offer excellent value for money. It’s the perfect quick lunch before getting back to sightseeing.

And don’t forget to check out the tasty restaurants in the Chinatown district, the food court of Granville Island and the famous Japadog from the food trucks (a Japanese-inspired hot dog!).

From France, numerous airlines offer flights to Vancouver. Only flights departing from Paris are direct. If you’re leaving from another French city, like Nice for example, there will be a layover.

 As flight prices for Vancouver can vary dramatically, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the guarantee of getting the best price .

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Vancouver, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.

You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

And you? What would you like to visit in Vancouver?

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Vancouver is blessed. This modern city, with its glittering high-rise downtown, is ringed by some of the most beautiful water and mountain scenery on the planet. Visitors love the laid-back and outdoorsy lifestyle: You can ski in the morning, chill on the beach or paddleboard in the afternoon, and spend the night people-watching on a patio overlooking superlative mountain views. Vancouver also appeals to foodies, thanks to world-class restaurants, some of the best sushi outside of Japan, and a cutting-edge cocktail scene. Gateway to the Olympic-class mountains of Whistler, the Asian malls of Richmond, and Canada’s most English city, Victoria, there’s adventure all around this Pacific Northwest paradise.

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When’s the best time to go to Vancouver?

Sure, Vancouver has a reputation for rain—it’s even nicknamed Rain City, or Raincouver, by the locals—but that’s how it gets such gorgeous blooms from spring to fall. No matter when you visit, make sure you bring an umbrella. Year-round the climate is pleasingly mild. During winter it rarely snows except on the local ski hills, and the temperatures hover around 40° to 50° Fahrenheit. Spring arrives early in February or March, and summer ramps up around June but lasts till late September, with temperatures just above 70° Fahrenheit and long, lingering sunsets. The city fills with cruise-going tourists throughout July and August, so canny travelers come in September to enjoy those balmy late-summer days without the crowds.

How to get around Vancouver

Vancouver’s nearest airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which connects in 30 minutes to the city by the cheap and efficient Skytrain on the Canada Line. If you’re coming from Seattle or Portland, the Bolt Bus is a budget option, dropping off at the central Pacific Station; there’s also a Greyhound terminal there. Pricier but fantastically scenic is Amtrak’s Cascades route from Seattle, which hugs the coastline along the way.

Vancouver’s downtown core is easily explored by foot, bike, or public transit. The latter is plentiful and well-connected, with options including the sea bus to the North Shore, the Skytrain, and buses. Car share companies Car2Go, ZipCar, Moda, and Evo are all very popular with Vancouverites. There are also water taxis who ply their trade around False Creek to such attractions as Granville Island and Science world.

Can’t miss things to do in Vancouver

Nothing says “Vancouver” more than a cycle along the 22-kilometer Seawall. Wrapping around Downtown and including Coal Harbour, False Creek, and Stanley Park, you can snap selfies against a truly dazzling backdrop of mountains, sea, and glittering glass high-rises.

Food and drink to try in Vancouver

Vancouver is a cosmopolitan, multicultural city. After English and Chinese, the most common mother tongues are Punjabi, German, Italian, French, Tagalog, and Spanish. This translates into a thrillingly diverse dining scene that benefits from the first-class produce grown in the fertile lower mainland and Fraser Valley, as well as from the superb seafood harvested from the waters nearby. Vancouver’s Asian food scene is second to none, with excellent sushi bars, ramen joints, and izakayas in every neighborhood. You’ll also discover award-winning BC wines, a thriving craft brewing scene, and distilleries creating uniquely Canadian spirits with local ingredients.

Culture in Vancouver

The Museum of Anthropology at the UBC campus is home to one of the world’s best collections of First Nations peoples’ carvings, totem poles, and artifacts. Chinatown’s Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a must-see, as is the Bill Reid Gallery and the Vancouver Art Gallery. The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra have their home at the ornate Orpheum Theatre, and the city has a lively dance, opera, and theater scene.

Vancouver has more than its fair share of summer celebrations, from the cultural Bard on the Beach Shakespeare-fest, to the three-day Celebration of Light fireworks extravaganza, to the annual Seawheeze Half-Marathon, where 10,000 Lycra-clad yoga fans arrive for a weekend of running, partying in the park, and sunset yoga. But you’ll find something fun to take part in no matter what time of year it is, including winter’s Talking Stick Festival, which celebrates First Nations culture, and the spring Cherry Blossom Festival.

Local travel tips for Vancouver

Vancouver (or Lotus Land, as it’s sometimes called) really does deliver on the hype implied by its regular inclusion on those best places to live lists. - The city’s inhabitants know there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes—so don’t let a spot of rain scare you away. - Free shuttle buses run throughout the summer to Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, so get out into the mountains and enjoy the dense, incredibly green forests, no matter the weather. - Also dive into BC’s incredibly diverse wines, brews, and spirits while you’re here—very little gets exported, so it’s a rare chance to soak up the local flavors.

Local Resources

The Georgia Straight

Vancouver Food Truck App

Inside Vancouver

Globe & Mail

Practical Information

- Vancouverites are an English-speaking bunch, with just a smattering of French and other languages tossed into the mix. - On the appliance front, all of Canada runs on the same standard voltage of 110-120 v as the United States. Your hair dryer will work just fine, no adapter necessary.

Guide Editor

Amanda Castleman and Nikki Bayley

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Vancouver Travel Guide

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to Vancouver, Canada. It's too cold, it rains all the time, it gets so dark, etc. Not only are these preconceived notions misguided, Vancouver actually has some of the most temperate weather in the entire country, making it an ideal destination to play, explore, and have adventures inside and out.

Once you realize you're not going to be swept away by freezing rain year-round, you can begin digging into the wide variety of things to see, do, eat, and explore. Canada's third largest city is a multicultural hub with stunning architecture that sits on the Strait of Georgia and is surrounded by epic mountains and lush green forests.

Because of its natural beauty, the city is set up for outdoor adventurers, whether cruising the streets of one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, riding bikes along the city's seawall, or hiking in nearby woodlands for some of the freshest air on earth.

Vancouver is a city that is proud of its diversity, its indigenous history, and its tolerance. Davie Village is a neighborhood in the city's West End where a thriving LGBTQ+ community comes out to play, while the city also boasts the third-largest urban Indigenous population in all of Canada.

So, throw your mistaken beliefs out the window and think about booking a ticket to Canada's western hub, you will not regret it.

Pacific Standard Time

Best Time to Go

There aren't any bad times to go to Vancouver, but because it's a northern city, there are reasons for every season. The summer months draw in the most tourists and boast the longest daylight hours, but the winter (which is surprisingly mild) is the least crowded time of year and has sprouting trees and flowers as early as February. Keep in mind that the rainiest months are from November to March, which leaves the month of September as the most idyllic time with changing leaves, cooling temps, and dry skies to get outside.

If you're into whale watching, April through November is prime time. For events and festivals, think about Chinese New Year, which lands between January and February, the Vancouver Marathon in May, Vancouver International Jazz Festival in June, or the Vancouver Pride Parade in July or August.

Things to Know

One of the best things about Vancouver is how easy it is to get around. Not only is the city incredibly walkable and bike-able, but there is also a plethora of public transit options. Don't bother renting a car here as hotel parking is pricey and taxis, buses, ferries, trains, and ride-share apps make moving around a cinch. Check out this handy transit guide by the Vancouver Tourism Board.

Another great item to note about Vancouver is that the city boasts 550 separate locations with free WiFi service. Look for the #VanWifi public network to connect in case you need touring advice at your fingertips. Also, if you're visiting Vancouver from the United States, you do not need an adapter for your electronics as all of Canada runs on standard 120 V.

As far as the geography of the city, Vancouver is broken up into neighborhoods. Popular hoods include the Downtown Centre, which is in the middle of the city; Gastown, which is known as the historic quarter filled with cobblestoned streets and trendy restaurants; Kitsilano for the beach and water enthusiasts; Yaletown for high-end shopping and eating; Chinatown for great eats and sites; and the West End, which leads outdoor lovers to the expansive Stanley Park.

Lastly, Vancouver is considered one of the safest cities in the world. But like all major metropolises, mind your belongings — especially in the highest touristy areas of the city.

Currency: Canadian Dollar – nicknamed the "loonie." (Check the current exchange rate )

Language: English

Calling Code: +1 604

Capital City: Victoria (capital of British Columbia)

How to Get Around

Trains: Vancouver SkyTrain is one of the most-efficient means of getting around the city. There are three lines: the Expo Line with four downtown stations, including Chinatown and the Waterfront; the Canada Line, which can take you to and from the airport, in addition to Vancouver City Centre and Yaletown; and the Millennium Line that links with the Westcoast Express commuter train. Depending on where you're going, fares run from $1.95 to $5.75.

Buses: Vancouver has an extensive bus system that typically runs from 5am to 1am with stops in every major neighborhood and beyond. Vancouver's TransLink website has a simple plug and play that can help you get to wherever you need to go and includes fare prices.

Taxis: If you plan on taking a taxi from the airport, the fares will change depending on the zone of your destination. Airport rates range from $20-$40. All taxis are regulated in the city and run on meters.

Ferries: Connecting downtown Vancouver with the North Shore is the SeaBus, a passenger-only ferry that departs every 15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. SeaBus fares are similar to SkyTrain fares.

Car service: When you arrive at the Vancouver International Airport, you have a bevy of transportation options. One of the most comfortable rides is hailing a luxury vehicle to whisk you into the city in style. There are officially-licensed limousine services from the airport that do not require any advanced bookings.

Best Hotels

Fairmont hotel vancouver.

Address: 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6, Canada Phone: +1 604-684-3131 Website

Arguably the nicest hotel in the entire city, the Fairmont resides in the central part of the city with epic waterfront views. The classic Châteauesque-styled hotel was built in the 1930s, has more than 500 rooms, and features an indoor pool. Other highlights of the property include its lavish afternoon tea and a pet-friendly policy.

Shangri-La Hotel

Address: 1128 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0A8, Canada Phone: +1 604-689-1120 Website

Part of the luxurious Shangri-La chain of hotels, the Vancouver iteration is home to 119 rooms and 15 floors within the tallest building in the city. This central downtown spot is known for its Zen-inducing spa, award-winning service, and excellent dining at Miantiao — a Chinese/Italian fusion spot that's filled with surprises.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia

Address: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada Phone: +1 604-682-5566 Website

This vintage downtown hotel was originally opened in 1927 and has played host to A-list celebrities and British royalty alike. In 2011, the hotel unveiled a massive renovation, bringing the property into the 21st century with today's finest amenities. Guests here are treated to an incredible spa, 52-foot indoor saltwater lap pool, and personalized experiences that range from rainforest hikes to helicopter journeys.

Skwachàys Lodge

Address: 31 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3, Canada Phone: +1 604-687-3589 Website

Indigenous-owned and operated, the Skwachàys Lodge is a hotel in the Gastown areas of the city. This arts-forward property hosts an urban Indigenous artist residence and a gallery featuring Indigenous art. If you're looking for the soul of the Indigenous experience, the hotel offers a private sweat lodge purification ceremony on the rooftop garden, in addition to a smudging ceremony meant to purify the body.

Address: 1177 Melville St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0A3, Canada Phone: +1 604-669-5060 Website

This boutique hotel is close to Stanley Park and is constantly recognized as one of the best hotels in Vancouver. Known for its health and wellness program, each room comes with its own yoga mat and a 24-hour yoga channel on the in-room TVs. Other unique amenities include an infrared sauna and free use of electric cruiser bikes that can zip you around the city with ease.

Hotel Belmont

Address: 654 Nelson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6K4, Canada Phone: +1 604-605-4333 Website

For tourists wanting to be in the fray of Vancouver's bustling nightlife, Hotel Belmont is in the perfect spot. This funky hotel is right off Granville Street, which is home to some of the city's best bars, pubs, and nightclubs. Inside, the hotel leans into kitsch with multicolored layouts and retro design. And if you want to keep the entertainment going at the property, The Basement has a neon-lit arcade with a bowling alley and late night DJ-led dance parties.

Address: 322 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6, Canada Phone: +1 604-642-6787 Website

A Yaletown mainstay, Opus Hotel is a hip boutique that features in-house Muses who are there to design your entire stay in Vancouver – virtually anyway. The pre-ordained characters give you a helpful guide to the city based on your mood or personality. In addition to making your stay more personalized, the hotel also features a delectable Italian restaurant called Capo with tasty pizzas and slick cocktails.

Best Restaurants

Address: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver, BC V6C 1S4, Canada Phone: +1 604-568-3900 Website

Not only does Miku have some of the best sushi in Vancouver, but it also prides itself on its sustainability. The restaurant is part of the Ocean Wise Program, which is overseen by the Vancouver Aquarium and recognizes restaurants for their commitment to sustainable fishing practices. As a result, you can feel good when you devour the specially curated Kaiseki meals or a la carte albacore, yellowtail, and king salmon nigiri.

L'Abattoir

Address: 217 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J2, Canada Phone: +1 604-568-1701 Website

There isn't a Michelin Guide in Vancouver, but if the French publication ever decided to review the city, L'Abattoir would be star worthy. Located in Gastown, the restaurant leans into West Coast cuisine with heavy French influences. Menu highlights include chilled marinated octopus, fillet of wild Pacific halibut "à la nage," and pigeon paillard.

Address: 207 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1K6, Canada Phone: +1 604-688-1655 Website

If you're looking for some of the best vegetarian and vegan options wrapped in Middle-Eastern flare, Nuba is the restaurant for you. This Lebanese spot is famous for their falafel, red lentil soup, Merguez meatballs, and creamy hummus. There are four separate locations, so you can generally fill up on Mediterranean delights anywhere in the city.

Cioppino's

Address: 1133 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5P6, Canada Phone: +1 604-688-7466 Website

Easily the best Italian restaurant in the city, Cioppino's is helmed by chef Giuseppe Posteraro, who is as much an artist as he is a cook. The restaurant is the recipient of the coveted three-fork rating from Italian food and wine magazine, Gambero Rosso—basically the Italian version of the Michelin guide. You'll quickly understand why when Pino whips up original, artistic meals on a nightly basis themed on whatever is in-season and whatever has inspired him on that day.

Burdock & Co.

Address: 2702 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E8, Canada Phone: +1 604-879-0077 Website

Burdock & Co. was one of the first restaurants to adopt the concept of the 100-mile meal. The idea is to source all ingredients from the area and make out-of-this-world farm-to-table dishes that literally can't be seen anywhere else. As a result, the menu is chock-full of locally-forested mushrooms, freshly-caught mussels, charcoal-grilled steaks from local farms, and more. If you care about true sustainability, this is the restaurant for you.

Address: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada Phone: +1 604-673-7000 Website

Typically one of the top-rated restaurants in the city, Hawksworth is a proponent of modern West Coast Canadian dining that sources only the finest-quality ingredients and delivers them in the most innovative of ways. A walk through chef Hawksworth's menu is a foodie's dreamscape that seems to travel around the globe with specialties like Korean-fried cauliflower, wagyu beef carpaccio, spring ricotta agnolotti, and his take on baby-back ribs.

Salmon n' Bannock

Address: 1128 W Broadway #7, Vancouver, BC V6H 1G5, Canada Phone: +1 604-568-8971 Website

The focus of Salmon n' Bannock is to highlight First Nations' traditions within the culinary space. The staff is a cacophony of First Nations' peoples, and the food represents a variety of First Nations' cultures. Classics include a bison pot roast, a "Fiss n' Rice" that's a wild sockeye atop Ojibway wild rice, and loads of Bannock breads with creative toppings.

Things to Do

Vancouver mural festival.

Address: 2410 Columbia St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 3E6, Canada Phone: +1 604-675-1793 Website

The Vancouver Mural Festival is a non-profit that was formed in 2016 with the aim of enhancing the artistic side of the city. Murals are created throughout the city every year and culminates in a yearly, multi-week event that spans 11 neighborhoods, and includes art walks, live shows, and more.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada Phone: +1 604-985-7474 Website

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge that crosses the Capilano River and has been freaking out acrophobes since 1889. The bridge is also part of an expansive park that traipses tourists through bridges and walkways among the coastal rainforest.

Talaysay Tours

Address: 334 Skawshen Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7P 3T1, Canada Phone : (800) 605-4643 Website

The guiding ethos of the Talaysay Tours is to simply 'love the land.' If you want to discover authentic cultural experiences, Talaysay Tours can give you an inside look at indigenous culture throughout Vancouver's history and ventures through Stanley Park and other historic sites.

Museum of Anthropology

Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada Phone: +1 604-822-5087 Website

Since 1947, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) has been displaying and celebrating the arts and cultures of First Nations' peoples and other communities in and around British Columbia. MOA is a teaching museum that houses upwards of 50,000 works from across the globe and is famous for its vast collection from the Northwest Coast.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Address: 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada Phone: +1 604-662-4700 Website

One of the largest museums in all of Canada, the Vancouver Art Gallery was first established in 1931 and features art from around the world with an emphasis on First Nations and Canadian art. Past exhibits include everything from Picasso and Monet to Murakami and anime.

City Cycle Tours

Address: 648 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2, Canada Phone: +1 604-618-8626 Website

Vancouver is an incredibly bike-friendly city and riding is one of the best ways to see all the sites. A guided bike tour by City Cycle Tours can take you through Stanley Park, into Chinatown and Gastown, around the Public Market at Granville Island, and so much more. One of the true highlights is biking the seawall that has views of Vancouver's stunning seascapes and architecture.

Stanley Park

Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada Phone: +1 604-681-6728 Website

Vancouver's largest play area, Stanley Park is a massive green space on the northwest side of the city that is home to Vancouver's famous Seawall, the Vancouver Aquarium, multiple beaches, and dozens of walking and biking trails. The 400-hectare park is a local's favorite and includes multiple dining outlets, swimming pools, ice rinks, golf courses, and more.

Grouse Mountain

Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada Phone: +1 604-980-9311 Website

If you want to take in the overwhelming beauty of Vancouver and British Columbia, think about jaunting up Grouse Mountain aboard the Super Skyride. Grouse Mountain is only 15 minutes from the city center and the gondola rises 4,100 feet to the summit for mesmerizing views. The mountain is also home to disc golf, paragliding, zip lines, and more.

Best Shopping

Granville island public market.

Address: Public Market, 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada Phone: +1 604-666-6655 Website

Just across the Granville Bridge, Granville Island Public Market is home to dozens of food stalls that can provide a full sampling of Vancouver's entire culinary scene. Outside the market are theaters, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Access to the island is via the Granville Bridge or one of Vancouver's SeaBuses.

Alberni/Robson Street

Address: 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A7, Canada Website

For all kinds of shopping finds, the parallel streets of Robson and Alberni are a spender's paradise. Stores run the gamut from Zara and Lululemon to Tiffany & Co. and Jimmy Choo. If you can't find what you're looking for, you're not trying hard enough.

West 4th Avenue

Address: West 4th From Fir Street to Balsam Street, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M4, Canada Phone: +1 604-617-9070 Website

West 4th Street has been a shopping hub in Vancouver since the 1920s and shows no signs of slowing. There are more than 250 unique businesses along the street that include clothing, sporting goods, homeware, health and wellness, and a wide variety of specialty shops.

Address: 1100 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1B2, Canada Phone: +1 604-684-3251 Website

This Vancouver-born brand is known for high-end ladies' fashion. Since 1984, the brand has grown to more than 100 locations in North America and eight in Vancouver alone.

Herschel Supply Co.

Address: 347 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B8, Canada Phone: +1 604-620-1155 Website

Another Vancouver-born brand, Herschel Supply Co. is known for its wide range of bags, backpacks, duffels, totes, and so much more. The company now has more than 40 locations around the globe as their fine craftsmanship sees higher demand every year.

Saje Natural Wellness

Address: 2252 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 1N8, Canada Phone : +1 604-738-7253 Website

Saje Natural Wellness is a Canadian-owned-and-operated wellness business that prides itself on all-natural products. The company is known for their soothing oils, lotions, diffusers, soaps, and shampoos. There are multiple Saje locations around Vancouver.

Neighborhoods to Know

Coal Harbour : Sitting on the north side of central Vancouver, Coal Harbour is a sleepy narrow neighborhood that is bordered by Canada Place to the east and Stanley Park to the west. Canada Place is home to the Vancouver Convention Centre that attracts international expositions. One of the main attractions of the neighborhood is the waterfront views where pedestrians can stroll and peer out into Vancouver Harbour while browsing small shops and eating at quaint cafés.

Chinatown : Vancouver's Chinatown dates back to the late 1800s and is considered a National Historic Site in Canada. One of the largest Chinatowns in the world, the central Vancouver neighborhood is filled with incredible Chinese restaurants and bakeries, apothecary shops, Asian markets, and more. A must-stop is the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, which is a Ming Dynasty style garden, and plays host to festivals, concerts, and educational activities.

Davie Village : Vancouver has an incredibly diverse and thriving LGBTQ+ community, and Davie Village is a stretch of streets where you'll find rainbow-colored flags flying with pride. You'll know you're in the right place when you step over the vibrant rainbow crosswalk that leads to a bevy of great restaurants and cafés during the day and buzzing bars and clubs at night.

Gastown : For lovers of historic areas, the cobblestoned streets of Gastown are the place to be. The neighborhood dates back to 1867 and features buildings with classic Victorian architecture and restaurants that are a foodie's dream. Instagrammers might want to take a picture in front of Gastown's most famous landmark, an antique clock that's partially powered by steam.

Granville Island : Technically not an island (it is bordered by water on three sides), Granville Island is a short ferry ride or bridge drive across False Creek on the southwest side of town. Once there, a must-stop attraction is the Granville Island Public Market where vendors hawk every type of local food imaginable. Around the market are theaters, galleries, and waterfront restaurants and breweries.

Kitsilano : Across the water to the west, Kitsilano is one of Vancouver's bigger neighborhoods. Within its confines includes West 4th Avenue, which is one of the best shopping streets in the city, the Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver's Greektown, and lots of green space for joggers, bikers, and lazy weekend hangouts. Kitsilano was once considered the Haight-Ashbury of Vancouver and its hippy roots can still be seen with loads of healthy vegan restaurants and wellness shops. It's also the birthplace of famed clothing brand Lululemon.

West End : The West End is the largest neighborhood on the peninsula, encompassing Davie Village, and is bordered by Stanley Park on the northwest, and Nelson Park and Robson Square to the southeast. Within the area is the Vancouver Art Gallery, the shopping Meccas of Robson and Alberni Streets, and multiple beaches. One of the more popular attractions is biking the Stanley Park Seawall that hugs the west side of the neighborhood.

Yaletown : This tony neighborhood is home to some of the nicest restaurants in the city alongside chic boutiques and luscious green space. To the southeast is BC Place, Vancouver's largest sports complex for soccer and football matches, as well as mega concert performances. The parks along the waterfront draw in locals and tourists alike.

Summer is peak tourism season with the least amount of rain and long sunny days that are rarely unbearably hot. Winters are milder than you'd expect for a Canadian city, but you'll encounter more rain from November to March. Shoulder seasons of spring and fall feature stunning blooms and changing leaves.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. January: 37°F to 44°F February: 38°F to 47°F March: 40°F to 51°F April: 44°F to 56°F May: 49°F to 63°F June: 54°F to 67°F July: 58°F to 72°F August: 58°F to 72°F September: 53°F to 66°F October: 47°F to 57°F November: 41°F to 49°F December: 37°F to 44°F

Apps to Download

Mobi-Bikes : Vancouver is such a great biking city with dozens of trails that weave in and around the streets, parks, and boardwalks. Mobi is cheap and easy way to find bikes anywhere in the city. iOs | Android

Uber : For quick ride services, download the popular Uber app to zip you around the city with ease. iOs | Android

Street Food Vancouver : Vancouver has an excellent street-food scene and if you want to know where, when, and how to find it all, download this app and you'll be street-feasting in no time. iOs | Android

Vancouver Transit : This app will help you catch a train, bus, or ferry to anywhere you want or need to go in Vancouver. iOs | Android

OpenTable : For all your restaurant reservation needs, download OpenTable. iOs | Android

The Ultimate Visitors Guide to Vancouver

Our guide is packed with recommendations from locals on everything from shopping to food, entertainment and festivals.

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Article content

There’s a reason Vancouverites like to say the west coast is the best coast. Our weather is mild, the ocean is  right there and the mountains are  right over there , and there’s no shortage of things to do and see.

The Ultimate Visitors Guide to Vancouver Back to video

Welcome to the Vancouver Sun’s  ultimate visitors guide.

This post is updated regularly with new content.

When should you visit Vancouver?

Due to our mild weather, you’ll find a pretty regular stream of visitors almost any time of year. Here’s a rundown on weather in Vancouver and the best time to visit. (For the latest Vancouver weather forecast, click here .)

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Best time to ski? Anytime after Christmas and up until mid-spring, depending on what kind of winter we’ve had. Cypress , Grouse and Seymour are all within an hour’s drive of Vancouver.

Best weather? Though there’s still the odd day of rain throughout the summer (it is Vancouver, after all) the period from May to October is pretty great . July and August tend to be more dry and the heat isn’t unbearable.

Best whale watching? Southern resident orcas like to frequent the Strait of Georgia between May to October to feed on migrating salmon, while northern resident orcas feed in the Johnstone Strait during the late summer.

Best time for sports? October is when you’ll want to visit if you’re looking for big league sports action; the B.C. Lions (CFL), the Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS) and the Vancouver Canucks (NHL) will all be playing at that time. The Rugby Sevens Series is always a hoot in March, and the Vancouver Canadians (MiLB) are a Vancouver tradition, playing from June through August.

Getting around

Vancouver is a compact city compared to a lot of other metropolitan centres, making it pretty easy to get around whether by foot, car or transit.

By public transit: TransLink is the local transit authority and consists of bus lines, SeaBuses and above and below-ground rail lines for SkyTrains and the Canada Line. For the most part, you’ll be able to access major corridors in the city of Vancouver via a SkyTrain or Canada Line route and then connect to bus routes that connect to major train stations. For more information on fares, maps and trip planning, visit the TransLink website . You can also read some of our recent coverage on TransLink news here .

Note: The Canada Line is by far the easiest and fastest way to connect to and from YVR Airport but there is a $5 AddFare when travelling eastbound from any Sea Island station (located near the airport). This AddFare helps pay for the Canada Line and applies to stored-value trips, Day Passes, single-use fares and tap-to-pay fares.

By car: Driving in Vancouver is easy as the city is set up on a grid system (numbered streets run east-west, with higher numbers in the south and lower numbers in the north) but finding a parking spot may pose some challenges. If you’re ever lost, just look for the mountains which are located on the North Shore and hopefully that’ll point you back in the right direction.

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Note: As of January 2020, ride-hailing services have also arrived in Vancouver – finally. So far, Uber and Lyft are the only companies operational in the Metro Vancouver area; Uber operates across all of the Metro Vancouver region but has run into some pushback in Surrey, while Lyft is only operating in certain areas of Vancouver (west of Victoria), the airport and the PNE. Read more of our coverage on ride-hailing here.

Neighbourhoods

Not sure where to stay or where to go? Here are a few of the more popular neighbourhoods for visitors to Vancouver.

Commercial Drive: There’s a difference between hipster and  hippie and Commercial Drive definitely leans more toward the latter. It’s also a bit of a cultural mosaic, thanks to generations of immigrants who have contributed to the fabric of the Drive.

Downtown: This neighbourhood mixes business, shopping and the Granville Entertainment District. Cruise ships dock at the north end and you’ll find plenty of places to stay, eat, play and shop.

Gastown: The original site of Vancouver is now a mix of stylish boutiques, studios, restaurants and Vancouver Film School, along cobblestone-paved streets and historic brick buildings. You’ll also find plenty of touristy photo ops and the Gastown steam clock.

Kitsilano: Laid-back but there’s no slouching here. Named for Squamish Chief August Jack Khatsahlano, this neighbourhood is also the birthplace of Greenpeace and remains a vibrant neighbourhood for active lifestyles. Local shops mix with international brands as well.

Mount Pleasant: Hipster haven – grab a coffee and browse boutiques, handmade knick knacks and record shops before stopping for a happy hour pint on a patio. Plenty of young families around these parts.

West End: Anything and everything goes. The home of Vancouver Pride boasts insane views of the Pacific Ocean from English Bay and endless options for food and drink.

Yaletown: Posh and trendy – it’s where Carrie Bradshaw would live if she were a Vancouverite. Plenty of trendy boutiques and cocktail bars, mixed in with beauty salons and restaurants.

Things to do in Vancouver

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, there is no shortage of activities on the mountains, the water or in the city. Or perhaps you’re coming for a major sports event or a concert? Whatever the reason for your visit, there’s plenty to do and plenty to see.

Start here with our our top five must-see attractions for tourists.

Visiting with kids? Some family-friendly ideas:

• On a budget? Here’s 20 things to do for under $20 with kids. • Check our our map of Vancouver pools, splash pads and water parks.

Other ideas:

• Strap on a life vest, get out on the water and enjoy a whale-watching tour. • Scout out Hollywood North movie sets and filming locations . • Check out local craft breweries by doing a brewery crawl in Mount Pleasant.

Food and dining

Whatever you’re in the mood for, Vancouver’s got it. We’ve got countless restaurants to cater to any appetite.

If you’re a big foodie, we’d even recommend you visit during  Dine Out Vancouver , a 17-day festival in January and February that sees more than 250 restaurants offering up prixe-fixe meals at $20, $30 or $40 a person. You can read our Dine Out Vancouver coverage right here .

• Our food critic Mia Stainsby lists her picks for the 10 best new restaurants of 2018 . • If your trip to Vancouver has your travel budget maxed out, you can see Mia’s picks for cheap eats . • We also figured out where you can enjoy Metro Vancouver’s best pizza , best taco , best burger , best sandwich  and Afternoon Tea . • Vancouver has plenty of options for the best in Chinese cuisine – try one of these 11 signature dishes . • Gastown gastronomy? Mia Stainsby offers up the best places to eat in this trendy neighbourhood . • Check out the best patios in Metro Vancouver, the Okanagan Valley and Vancouver Island. • Get a taste of the world at the 2019 Richmond Night Market with Mia Stainsby’s picks. • If you’re a happy hour hound, here are the city’s 15 best happy hours . • Looking for Vancouver restaurant reviews? Browse our archives here.

Shopping and retail

Looking to drop some cash on clothing, souvenirs and other great mementos to remember Vancouver by? Our lifestyle editor Aleesha Harris offers up her picks for the best shopping districts in Vancouver, can’t-miss boutiques and legendary warehouse sales.

• A few tips for shopping the Aritzia Warehouse Sale , an annual event for the Vancouver brand . • Search for Vancouver retailers and services through our dedicated directory .

Festivals and celebrations

Vancouver knows how to celebrate. From Car Free Days to the world-class Vancouver Pride, festivals celebrating large-scale murals and international musical acts, there’s something happening at almost any time of year. Many are kid-friendly free events, while others are ticketed.

Here’s a quick introduction to some of our favourites:

Vancouver Pride is the second-largest Pride celebration in Canada, with people travelling from around to the world to come take in the annual parade, which happens each summer. If you’re coming from out of town, book your accommodations early because Vancouver’s West End, where much of the celebrations take place, can fill up quickly. Check out all of our previous coverage right here .

The Celebration of Light fireworks competition takes place in English Bay over four evenings in late July and early August, two on weekdays and two on weekends. The free competition also features some musical performances and family-friendly activities. It’s a hectic evening if you’ve never been but here are some tips on the best viewing spots around town and here’s how the judges pick the winners and what they look for .

The Fair at the PNE  boasts the historic Wooden Roller Coaster, weird and wacky foods and enough beer and nightly entertainment to keep you buzzing for a while. The PNE – short for Pacific National Exhibition – usually kicks off in late August and continues for two weeks into early September. See the full lineup of entertainment and Summer Night Concerts headliners for 2019  and previous coverage of the unique food offerings available .

The  Vancouver Christmas Market is among the countless Christmas-themed events taking place in the city each year. The market, which begins in November and ends the first week of January, is inspired by German winter markets and yes, definitely includes glühwein. Check out what you can expect in this video recap of 2018’s market .

Vancouver’s 4/20 event is a protest, rally, farmers’ market and celebration all rolled into one. It’s among the biggest events of its kind, with thousands of people from across the Metro Vancouver region congregating to partake of the good stuff. The April 20 event is not without its fair share of headlines and has certainly been the subject of many polarizing discussions but read our cannabis coverage and decide for yourself.

The  Richmond Night Market is an annual event that brings Asia’s popular night market culture to Metro Vancouver. You’ll find a mix of foods, both novel and delicious, as well socks, cellphone covers and other cheap gadgets for sale. (Try your hand at haggling if you dare.) There’s dozens of vendors, making the event a great one-stop-shop for dinner, dessert and entertainment. See food critic Mia Stainsby’s top picks for the 2019 event .

For more festivals around Metro Vancouver in 2019, check out our Ultimate B.C. Summer Festival Guide .

Arts and entertainment

Vancouver’s arts scene is tight-knit and it’s easy to miss events if you’re not plugged in. If you like to check out local bands and theatre plays while travelling to get a feel for a city, Vancouver’s the perfect place for it.

Music: We recommend checking out the calendars for small to mid-size venues such as the Biltmore Cabaret, the Imperial and the Fox Cabaret, which regularly feature both local and touring acts. Larger international acts generally play at the Orpheum, the Commodore Ballroom, Rogers Arena and B.C. Place.

• Check our concert announcements listings to see who’s coming through town. • Read music reviews , arts features and interviews by our arts writer Stuart Derdeyn . • Two staples of the local festival scene? The Vancouver International Jazz Festival and the Vancouver Folk Music Festival . There’s also a few that are close to Vancouver, like Surrey’s Fvded in the Park and the Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival .

Theatre: There are a number of theatre companies in the city, ranging from small productions to larger Broadway Across Canada touring productions. We suggest starting with the Arts Club Theatre , which puts on shows at three different stages year-round, and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre , which hosts touring productions.

• Our theatre critic Jerry Wasserman shares his reviews of local stage productions . • See all of our local theatre coverage right here .

Film: Vancouver has a number of film festivals, both big and small, celebrating everything from international titles to indie fare. We’re also known as Hollywood North, due to the massive number of film productions that choose to film in B.C.

• Check out our past coverage on the Vancouver International Film Festival . • See which movie stars are in town filming by reading our Hollywood North coverage . • Big Riverdale fan? See all of our coverage on the locally filmed Archie Comics show.

Other things to do: Be sure to check out our online database of events happening around Metro Vancouver, which can be searched by date or event category.

Best walks around Vancouver

Vancouver is an easy city to navigate even without a rental car. Between public transit, bike shares and your own two feet, you can explore a good chunk of the city in an afternoon.

Here are some of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon walking through the city, with stops for coffee and Instagram photo ops.

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1FmAIAM59mIOtyEe7MWV8iOr1VdIxQQQL&w=640&h=480]

South False Creek to Yaletown: Starting from the Main Street-Science World SkyTrain station area, you can walk past the iconic Science World dome and snap some great waterfront photos of the downtown Vancouver skyline before stopping in the Olympic Village for brunch or a coffee and pastry. Visit with Myfanwy MacLeod’s The Birds sculpture in the village square and Jonathan Borofsky’s Human Structures sculpture in Hinge Park and before continuing west along the pedestrian and cycling path.

Make a stop at Dog Park to pet a good doggy or two before arriving at Granville Island where you could easily spend hours just browsing the public market offerings, artisan shops or lounging on the dock facing into False Creek and watching boats go by. From the island, you can hop on board an Aquabus or False Creek Ferry – or if you’re not tired yet, walk across the bridge – over to Yaletown where you can do more shopping or stop for a meal.

Gastown to English Bay : Here’s a nice walk if you’re into statues, classic tourist photo ops and leisurely strolling. Starting at Gastown’s Steam Clock, follow the cobble-stone streets toward Waterfront Station, the city’s main terminus for several transit lines and which is located in a historic Canadian Pacific Railway Station built in 1910. Following the paved walkway, you can snap photos of Inges Indee’s The Drop sculpture, and Digital Orca , created by Vancouver’s own Douglas Coupland .

Following the Coal Harbour seawall and you’ll soon see Stanley Park in the distance. Following the signage will take you onto the Stanley Park seawall, where you can stop as frequently as you like to take in the views of the city behind you and enjoy the many sculptures and landmarks that pepper the park. The seawall eventually leads you back to the edge of English Bay where you can grab a hot dog from a local cart, enjoy the sunset and take one last photo of the famous Inukshuk sculpture.

Day trips and unique experiences

Vancouver is a pretty compact city, with ocean on one side and plenty of mountains and hiking trails on the other. So if you’re looking to get away from the city, you don’t have to go far. Here are some suggestions for venturing out of Vancouver.

• Looking for a uniquely B.C. experience? These 4 trips will get you out of your comfort zone. • Limited on time? Here are 3 easy day trips within two hours of Vancouver . • To see the best of B.C., here are 7 places to put on your B.C. Travel Bucket List . • Planning a camping trip? You can’t go wrong with these 5 favourite B.C. campgrounds . • If you’ve got time and keys to a car, here are 5 ultimate B.C. road trips you can do in 7 days . • World’s largest penny? It’s on our list of 10 record-breaking novelty roadside attractions in B.C. • Play hike and seek with these 5 family-friendly hikes along the Sea-to-Sky Highway . • Looking for the best Instagram spots in B.C.? Here are 10 unique locations to take a photo . • Here are the three ultimate road trips to the farthest reaches of B.C. • Headed to Salt Spring Island? Here are 8 things to do for nature lovers . • Love hot springs and feeling adventurous? Here are 5 unique hot springs to visit in British Columbia . • Get pedalling with these five unique Metro Vancouver bike tours.

Check out more of our B.C. Travel coverage right here.

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Home » North America » Canada » Vancouver

EPIC 3-DAY VANCOUVER ITINERARY (2024)

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

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

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

A Little Bit About this Vancouver Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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3-Day Vancouver Itinerary Overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Vancouver – Samesun Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

Best Budget Hotel in Vancouver – GEC Granville Suites Downtown

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

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

Best Luxury Hotel in Vancouver – Rosewood Hotel Georgia

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

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

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

10:00 AM – Stanley Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

12:00 PM – Vancouver Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

2:00 PM – Canada Place

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5:00 PM – Vancouver Lookout

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

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

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

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

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

7:00 PM – Gastown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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…

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

10:00 AM – Vancouver Art Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1:00 PM – Pacific Spirit Regional Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

3:00 PM – Museum of Anthropology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6:00 PM – Granville Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9:00 AM – English Bay Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

12:00 PM – Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

2:00 PM – Grouse Mountain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7:00 PM – Lions Gate Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Queen Elizabeth Park

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

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

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

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

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

VanDusen Botanical Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Science World at TELUS World of Science

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Vancouver

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

Sheridan Cahoon

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CANADA , NORTH AMERICA · January 12, 2022 Last Updated on March 12, 2024

A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

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Since the 1986 World Expo and the 2010 Olympic Games , Vancouver, Canada, has been in the spotlight as a world-class city. Vancouver is nestled at the foot of rugged mountains, and it’s oceanfront seaside city boasts a stunning skyline view. Its downtown Stanley Park is rated one of the best urban green spaces globally.

I’m fortunate to call this incredible city my home. It offers visitors unique attractions, world-class cuisine, and a gateway to exploring other parts of Canada. Vancouver will wow you with its beauty, diversity, and lifestyle, whether you visit for a long weekend, a week, or an extended period.

Let’s not forget, Vancouverites are health conscious. So, many of the city’s activities are outdoor focused. Its beaches, hiking trails, and bike lanes are always busy in summer. However, the winter mountains bring skiers and snowboarders to enjoy its powdery slopes. When you visit, here are some must-see places in Vancouver, Canada.

Things To Do In Vancouver, British Columbia

1) granville island.

With over 300 shops, theaters, a market, entertainers, and fantastic oceanfront restaurants, you can spend all day at Granville Island. Located on a peninsula under the Granville Street Bridge, the city converted its industrial warehouses into trendy boutiques and a bustling market offering fresh baked goods, locally caught seafood, and gourmet ingredients.

If you arrive at the Granville Island Market hungry, prepare to have your senses teased with incredible smells, sights, and food tastings. By picking up cheese, bread, meat, and pastries from various vendors, visitors can enjoy an impromptu picnic next to the water.

One of the biggest attractions for visitors is the cement silos at Ocean Concrete. Once dusty and unattractive, the six towers now glow in vibrant colors depicting six jovial characters. The “Giants,” which stand 70 feet tall, is the brainchild of Brazilian artists Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo. Today, the Giants are one of the most photographed attractions in the city.

Granville Island is a foodie’s paradise with some incredible patio restaurants. They offer a mix of tasty seafood dishes, west coast cuisine, and steaks done to perfection. Add to the meal some locally crafted beer or wine and a killer waterfront view, and you have the recipe for a perfect Vancouver outing.

From downtown, visitors can reach Granville Island by Aquabus. These colorful boats ferry travelers across False Creek for a small fee. For CAD 17, visitors can enjoy a tour of the waterfront. During the ride, see the sites of BC Place Stadium, Olympic Village, Science World, and more.

2) Vancouver Olympic Cauldron

Although it’s been more than a decade since Vancouver hosted the 2010 Olympic Games, an Olympic icon still remains. Located in Jack Poole Plaza, next to the Vancouver Convention Center, the Cauldron represents Vancouver’s Olympic history. Due to cost, the 10-meter glass and metal structure remain unlit, but the Cauldron makes for great Instagram photos.

Nearby, you can climb to the roof of the Convention Center. You can enjoy the Cauldron, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountain views from the grass rooftop. A few hundred feet from the Olympic symbol, the Digital Orca, stands prominent with black and white blocks. Almost eight meters high, the stacked blocks symbolize a killer whale and look a lot like giant Lego bricks.

Here, you can stroll the waterfront and enjoy views of Stanley Park to the west and the Vancouver cruise terminal to the east.

3) Stanley Park

With 1,000 acres of pristine rainforest, Vancouverites love and appreciate their “Stanley Park.” It’s not surprising, TripAdvisor rated it as the world’s best urban park. Often referred to as the “crown jewel” of Vancouver, Stanley Park offers a mix of flower gardens, forest trails, and sandy beaches.

Although part of a metropolitan city, Stanley Park is home to various creatures. It’s not unusual to see swans, Canada Geese, raccoons, bald eagles, and blue herons around Lost Lagoon. In other parts of the park, you may see beavers and coyotes.

A meandering seawall surrounds the park, and its looping pathway totals 10 km in length. The seawall attracts thousands who come to walk, run, and bike the path in the summer. Close to the park, numerous bike shops offer single and tandem bikes rentals. If you prefer not to walk or bike, a horse-drawn carriage allows visitors to enjoy the scenic drive around the park.

Whether you spend an hour, half a day, or all day in the park, it has something for everyone. The water park, Stanley Park Train, and Vancouver Aquarium are the perfect venues for families. The most popular attractions are the totem poles at Brockton Point and the Prospect Point Lookout, which allows for picturesque views of the Lionsgate Bridge and the North Shore.

4) Flyover Canada

Home to Vancouver’s cruise terminal, Canada Place also houses a popular attraction. At the end of the pier, FlyOver Canada allows you to see the most breathtaking sceneries of the country without leaving Vancouver. On the family-friendly 4D ride, feel the movement motions from your movable seat while a film plays on a circular screen.

The simulated flight soars over the Canadian Rockies, through Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland, and witnesses the Northern Lights. While the ride is only eight minutes, you’ll feel the rumble of stampeding horses, the mist of Niagara Falls, and the wind in your hair as you swoop down across the wheat fields.

Sometimes, FlyOver Canada offers limited shows like FlyOver Iceland and FlyOver Hawaii. In December, film-goers enjoy a simulated sleigh ride across Canada that ends in the North Pole. Since the attraction takes place indoors, it makes for a great  Vancouver rainy day activity .

5) Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , north of Vancouver, wows everyone with its swaying bridge over the Capilano River. Quickly reached on the complimentary shuttle bus from downtown, the park attracts locals and visitors who come to test their fear of heights on many attractions in the park. While busiest in the summer months, don’t let the crowds prevent you from visiting.

While many come to walk the long bridge across the canyon, the park has other points of interest. The Treetop Adventures includes a series of smaller suspension bridges 30 meters high in the canopy. In the summer, visitors can view and learn about some birds of prey. The Capilano Suspension Bridge’s newest attraction is the Cliffwalk.

The narrow semi-circular walkway hangs from the side of a granite cliff and is not for the faint of heart. The one-way catwalk continues along the ridge, offering stunning views of the canyon, river, and waterfall below.

Open year-round, the Capilano Suspension Park hosts “Canyon Lights” in December. With thousands of twinkling lights, the park attracts locals who come to enjoy the Christmas spirit. Be sure to bundle up because it can get frigid when the sun goes down.

Canyon Lights is the perfect winter outings for families. During your visit, have your photo taken in a sleigh, decorate Christmas cookies, spot illuminated owls in the trees, and make Christmas cards.

6) Grouse Mountain

Another favorite amongst locals and visitors is Grouse Mountain. Directly north of downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers a year-round attraction. In winter, locals enjoy the slopes for skiing and snowboarding. However, the warmer weather allows for hiking, ziplining, paragliding, and enjoying the aerial views of Vancouver.

The “Eye of the Wind,” a tall wind turbine, allows visitors to enjoy 360-degree mountains and city views. In another area, the birds of motion showcase a selection of prey birds. During the show, you’ll witness the Peregrine Falcon, the fastest creature in the world, fly over the audience.

The highlight for many is the mountain’s residents, two male grizzly bears. Named Grinder and Coola, the orphaned bears were rescued and given a large enclosure on Grouse Mountain. At 20 years old, these bears have grown up as best friends, unlike male grizzly bears in the wild. They hibernate like other bears, and you can see their activity on bear cams.

Take to the mountain on a trail instead of the expensive gondola for fitness fanatics. At 2.9 km, the Grouse Grind  tests your fitness level on a grueling 850-meter elevation gain trail. The one-way path consists of a series of switchbacks and stairs, lots and lots of stairs. Each summer, 150,000 people tackle the Grouse Grind. Will you be one of them?

7) Museum Of Anthropology

A trip to the University of British Columbia (UBC) offers excellent hiking trails, beautiful gardens, and the Museum of Anthropology . Located in an impressive building designed by architect Arthur Erickson, the museum exhibits items from BC’s First Nations and other great finds from around the globe.

The carvings, totem poles, ceramics, and weavings all have explanations of their origins. One of the museum’s amazing collections is the artwork of Canadian artist Bill Reid.

The Nitobe Memorial Garden represents an authentic Japanese garden close to the museum. Although small, it’s part of the larger UBC gardens. Visitors can also see the Greenheart TreeWalk, which features some suspension bridges in the tree canopy. The UBC garden sees fewer visitors, which is reminiscent of the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Although much of Vancouver has been developed with modern high-rises, a historic district still remains. A favorite amongst visitors, Gastown oozes charm with its cobblestone streets, unique lamp posts, and Victorian architecture.

While it has numerous quaint boutiques and trendy restaurants, most come to see its steam clock. Constructed in 1977 over a city steam vent, the world-famous clock gathers a crowd every 15 minutes. Like clockwork, it puts on a show, whistling and steaming to the delight of the crowds.

Initially, the clock served two purposes. It prevented the Victorian vent from being slept on by homeless individuals. Also, the neighborhood hoped the clock would attract tourists to Gastown. As one of the last remaining steam clocks in operation today, the clock serves Vancouver as a popular tourist attraction.

9) Vancouver Lookout

To the west of Gastown, the Vancouver Lookout allows visitors to enjoy aerial views of the city. Located in the Harbor Center, a glass elevator offers an exhilarating 40-second ride to the top. At the observation deck, a circular platform provides 360-degree views.

Informational plaques give a detailed history of some buildings and highlight the city’s prominent landmarks. During your visit, you’ll admire views of Stanley Park, False Creek, Gastown, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore mountains.

Like the CN Tower, the Lookout has a revolving restaurant. Tickets for the Vancouver Lookout last all day. So, see the city during the day, and return later to watch the sunset and enjoy the nighttime views.

10) Queen Elizabeth Park

Dedicated in 1939 to Queen Elizabeth (Queen’s mum), Queen Elizabeth Park sits on Vancouver’s highest piece of land. You can enjoy stunning city views and a stroll through its beautiful gardens with a high elevation. Its pristine gardens are planted in old quarries, and the blossoms are fantastic to see in spring.

While the Vancouver park charges no fee for visitation, visitors can pay CAD 7.05 for admission to the Bloedel Observatory. The Observatory’s dome contains a tropical oasis of plants and colorful birds. The park also includes a pitch and putt, lawn bowling green, off-leash dog area, and a rose garden.

Queen Elizabeth Park’s newest attraction, “Love in the Rain,” features four couples made of wire. The art installation allows park-goers to attach a love lock to its wired structure. Nearby, a large key box encourages visitors to drop their keys which are recycled into future artwork.

Vancouver’s Food Scene

For those who love to experience diverse food or try new restaurants, Vancouver is the place to be. Known as a foodie city, you can experience different flavors every night. With a large population of Asians, the city has an abundance of Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Malaysian, and Philippian restaurants.

Add first-class eateries offering Mediterranean, Greek, Italian, and Persian food to the mix, and you’re in cuisine heaven. Also, Vancouver is home to numerous micro-breweries, so visitors have many choices in craft beer and food tours .

Let’s not forget the food trucks, which offer excellent quick meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. With hundreds of food trucks in Vancouver, it’s easy to grab food with a busy itinerary.

Staying In Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada , has large chain hotels like Fairmont , Marriott , Shangri-La, Delta, and Hyatt . But being the most expensive city in the country, those decadent hotels command high prices. If you’re looking to get spoiled, by all means, choose a high-end stay downtown.

Downtown offers some less costly boutique hotels for those who prefer to save money. While still expensive, travelers can save money by selecting a hotel outside the downtown core.

Getting Around Vancouver

While most visitors tend to rent a vehicle, travelers can see Vancouver without a car. The Skytrain, Vancouver’s rapid transit system, transports people to downtown on a quick and inexpensive ride from the airport. With lots of stations, it’s easy to get around using Skytrain.

When staying downtown, the Aquabus ferries travelers across False Creek. It’s a great mode of transportation to reach Granville Island, Science World and Olympic Village.

Vancouver is a bike-friendly city. It has a myriad of bike lanes. With plenty of bike rental shops near Stanley Park, you can see the city on two wheels instead of four.

As you can see, Vancouver offers many attractions in its world-class city, and I’ve just begun to scratch the surface. With so much to see and do, expect your visit to Canada’s west coast to be a busy one.

We hope this article has inspired you to visit Vancouver, British Columbia. If you have any questions or advice to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About Canada

• 5 Beautiful Lakes To See In Banff, Canada
• Whistler Village And Sea To Sky Highway In Summer
• 5 Places To Go In Toronto As A Couple
• Wellington: A Little Bit Of Serenity Outside Of Toronto

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A local’s guide to Vancouver, B.C.

• By Eagranie Yuh
• Photos by Jackie Dives

Vancouver, B.C., is often touted as one of the world’s most livable cities, but while residents were busy being smug, a funny thing happened. Skyrocketing real estate prices and questionable politics transformed the city into a haven for the uber-affluent. A collective hangover has the locals wondering: Now what?

Now we focus on what we love about this place. We bask in the feeling of each neighborhood — exuberant West End, tony South Granville, up-and-coming Fraserhood — and how each spawns unique businesses. We hunker down in the rainy winter (but still run five miles on the seawall each morning) and emerge in the spring, cameras poised to document every single cherry blossom.

And we eat. We know our dim sum from our pierogies, our jianbing from our dosas. And despite being notoriously reserved, we love visitors — especially when we get to share our secrets about the city. So stay awhile. And don’t forget your umbrella.

Meet Eagranie Yuh

Eagranie’s a born-and-raised Vancouverite, aside from the five years she lived in Ontario. She’s married to an Australian, which mostly means eating a lot of Vegemite and spending a month each year in Tasmania.

Want to get in touch?

Explore more of Vancouver, B.C.

• 1-604-423-3869
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• 1-604-568-9508
• 1-604-879-8038
• 1-604-876-3474
• 1-604-428-0072
• 1-604-688-9779
• Although many places accept U.S. dollars, we do have our own currency in Canada — one that doesn’t include pennies. Your total gets rounded to the nearest nickel if you’re paying cash (and stays as-is if you’re using plastic).
• Canada’s two official languages are English and French, but you won’t hear much of the latter in Vancouver. You’re more likely to hear Cantonese, Mandarin and Punjabi — a reflection of the larger immigrant groups who have settled and shaped the city.
• Yes, marijuana is legal here. Driving while high is not. And trying to take weed home with you — on an airplane, across a border — is not a good idea.
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12 Vancouver Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting

By Eden Ashley MintNotion.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on this site, we will earn a commission at no added cost to you. This helps keep the content on this website free for everyone to enjoy. Disclosure Page

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What do I need to know before traveling to Vancouver?

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 things to do in Vancouver

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

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

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

Which part of Vancouver is best to stay?

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

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

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

Best hotels in Vancouver for every budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where should I avoid staying in Vancouver?

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

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

Is it safe to stay in downtown Vancouver?

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

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

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

Getting around Vancouver

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

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

Should you rent a car for your Vancouver trip?

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

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

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

How to use Vancouver’s public transit:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other ways to get around Vancouver:

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

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

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

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

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

1. It rains a lot in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Vancouver is a tiny city

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

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

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

3. There is free WiFi available in downtown Vancouver

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

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

4. Splurge on at least one Vancouver tourist attraction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Take advantage of free things to do in Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Take a daytrip from Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

Below are some more popular daytrip ideas from Vancouver:

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

7. Vancouver is an outdoorsy city

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Take a food tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Make time to visit Chinatown

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

Best things to do in Chinatown:

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

Best places to eat in Chinatown:

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

10. Check out Commercial Drive

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

Best cafes on Commercial Drive:

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

Best restaurants on Commercial Drive:

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

11. Check out the food markets in Vancouver

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

Lonsdale Quay Market

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

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

Granville Island Market

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

Best things to eat at Granville Island Market :

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

Richmond Night Market

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

12. Recreational marijuana is legal in Vancouver

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

What to pack for your Vancouver trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get from Vancouver International Airport to downtown

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

Public Transit

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

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

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

Vancouver Travel Guide FAQs

Is vancouver worth visiting.

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

How many days is enough in Vancouver?

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

What is the best month to visit Vancouver?

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

Is 3 days enough for Vancouver?

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

Is 5 days enough for Vancouver?

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

Is Vancouver expensive to visit?

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

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

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

Do you need a car in Vancouver?

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

Do they have Uber in Vancouver?

Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver.

Does Vancouver have good public transportation?

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

About Eden Ashley

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

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This week in Vancouver: the best brunch spots, a royal visit, travel tips, and more

Here's what you need to know for April 29 to May 5!

Brunch at Honey Salt in Vancouver. Right: A plane taking off from Vancouver International Airport.

Hey Vancouver, I hope everyone had a great weekend!

It's Asymina again and I'm back with another weekly guide for all the exciting things happening in the city. From Vancouver restaurants you should check out, travel tips , community festivals and a look at the weather forecast.

As we transition from April to May, there are a lot of fun events happening in the city this week so check out all the suggestions below.

Here's what you need to know if you're in Vancouver from Monday, April 29 to Sunday, May 5.

THINGS TO KNOW

👑 a royal visit.

Vancouver will be hosting a royal this week. Princess Anne, King Charles' sister, is visiting Vancouver and Victoria for her three-day visit from May 3-5. The royal will attend a commissioning ceremony in North Vancouver for the HMCS Max Bernays on May 3. She'll then set sail on the vessel to head to the Canadian Forces Base in Esquimalt on Vancouver Island where she will attend services in Victoria.

⛰️ GROUSE GRIND REOPENS

The famous Grouse Grind in Vancouver reopened for the 2024 season on April 27. The 2.5-kilometre trail was closed since September 2023 for annual maintenance. The trail also underwent upgrades, including a new trailhead entrance with improved access, new seating, a water fountain, stretching bars and better access for first responders, according to a press release. A footbridge over a creek near the one-quarter mark was also replaced.

🚢 BC FERRIES ADDS MORE ANIMAL DECKS

If you travel with your furry bestie on the BC Ferries you'll be happy to know the company has added outdoor pet areas to two more major vessels. BC Ferries says it's added areas for dogs and cats on its Queen of Surrey and the Queen of Coquitlam ships, meaning passengers can now utilize pet-designated areas on six vessels.

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🏙️ VANCOUVER IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE CITY

Anyone who lives in Vancouver knows how expensive of a city it is and another rent ranking report confirms it once again. North Vancouver took the cake for the most expensive rent in Canada this month in a April 2024 report released by Rentals.ca. A one-bedroom in the Metro Vancouver city goes for $2,704, in April 2024.

💰 FILING TAXES

Haven't filed your taxes? It could cost you. Narcity's Lisa Belmonte spoke with a national tax specialist on how not filing your taxes in Canada this year could mean you're missing out on hundreds of dollars. You don't have much time left with the April 30 deadline coming up. So if you haven't filed your taxes, get those done ASAP!

Get ready for more... rain!

Vancouver's weather forecast is living up to its Raincouver name again this week (surprise, surprise).

Thankfully it's not all bad. We'll see some sunshine on Wednesday and the temperatures will rise throughout the week with a high of 17 C on Friday. Here's hoping the weekend forecast doesn't change because it's currently showing sun and warm temps making it perfect patio weather!

✈️ YVR TO SINGAPORE

Air Canada has launched a new direct flight from Vancouver to Singapore. The 16-hour non-stop flights are scheduled to fly year-round on a Boeing 787 four times a week. The flights leave Vancouver International Airport at 12:15 a.m. and get to Changi at 7:10 a.m. the following day.

🧳 EUROPE TRAVEL TIPS

If you're planning a European vacation in 2024, you'll want to keep a few things in mind. Narcity's Katherine Caspersz put together a list of key tips you should check out before your trip, including passport and visa requirements, tourist fees and local tipping etiquette. Make sure you also keep up with any travel advisories before embarking on your travels!

🏨 VANCOUVER HOTEL RANKED #1

If Vancouver is on your travel list this year, you may want to stay at the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa. The Vancouver hotel took the spot on Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards Best of the Best Hotels in Canada for 2024. The luxurious hotel has a spa, sauna, stunning views and a European-inspired restaurant.

FOODIE NEWS

🧇 best brunch spots.

It's not just hotels that Vancouver was recognized for in the past week. Fourteen Vancouver brunch restaurants ranked as some of the best in Canada. Take a look through the list and start making those brunch plans ahead of the weekend!

🍣 ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SUSHI

What's another meal Vancouver is known for? If you said sushi then you're right. The city is full of incredible sushi restaurants and thankfully some of them offer all-you-can-eat menus for both lunch and dinner. We found seven sushi restaurants in Metro Vancouver where you can enjoy a feast.

🍸 VANCOUVER'S TOP BARS

The Vancouver love keeps on rolling in. Two Vancouver bars were also ranked as some of the best in North America. The 50 Best revealed its list of the 50 best bars for 2024 and Botanist Bar and The Keefer Bar are both on it. These cocktail spots offer impressive drink menus so it's worth checking them out on your next date night!

VANCOUVER FESTIVALS

🍕 la pizza week.

Calling all pizza lovers! Canada's largest pizza festival La Pizza Week runs from May 1-7, 2024. Restaurants in several Canadian cities will take part in the annual festival by releasing limited-edition pizzas. As for which restaurants in B.C. will be participating, that info is coming soon so stay tuned!

🎉 CHILLIWACK PARTY IN THE PARK

A fun two-day event is coming to Central Community Park on May 4 and 5. The Chilliwack Party in the Park will blend the magic of Star Wars and the vibrant spirit of Cinco de Mayo for a fun celebration. Organizers encourage you to show up in your best costumes for a chance to win $50 in food truck dollars. Along with food trucks, there will be live entertainment, a beer garden, an artisan market and a kid zone.

🎡 BURNABY TJ FESTIVAL

You can feast on authentic Taiwanese street foods at TJ Fest happening on May 4-5 at 3426 Smith Avenue in Burnaby. The event will also have outdoor performances showcasing the community's diverse cultures and free carnival-style games for all to enjoy.

🇭🇰 VANCOUVER HONG KONG FAIR

A large Hong Kong celebration is happening at The Shipyards in North Vancouver on May 5. This year the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair will have a cultural market with over 68 booths by Hong Konger artisans, creators and small businesses. There will also be street food stalls, performers, face painting and a Cantonese storytelling area. The general entry ticket is free.

🏒 VANCOUVER CANUCKS

The Vancouver Canucks are up 3-1 in the best-of-seven series after their 4-3 win against the Nashville Predators on Sunday. The Canucks have a chance to advance on April 30 when they host the Predators in Game 5, as per Sportsnet.

⚽ VANCOUVER WHITECAPS

The Vancouver Whitecaps are back home this week for a 50th-anniversary match against Austin FC on May 4 at BC Place.

You can also snag some tickets for an exciting summer match-up. Vancouver-born actor Ryan Reynolds announced the Welsh team he co-owns, Wrexham AFC, will be coming to Vancouver where the team will play against the Whitecaps on July 27 at BC Place.

JOB POSTINGS

The Vancouver International Airport is hiring for a variety of positions.

Among the jobs listings is a communications specialist who will be responsible for providing support with media relations and public affairs activities. That means they'll handle media inquiries, write statements, and coach spokespeople before media interviews, among other things. The salary range for this position is between $68,011 and $88,886 per year.

As you can see, a lot is going on in Vancouver from April 29 to May 5.

Have a great week everyone!

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

• These Vancouver bars were named among the best in North America in 2024 ›
• These 14 Vancouver brunch restaurants were just ranked as some of the best in Canada ›
• 15 things to do in and around Vancouver this spring that prove it's the best season ›

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This week in vancouver: free festivals, summer job openings, spring weather and more, 15 things to do in and around vancouver this spring that prove it's the best season, 9 free things to do in vancouver this weekend, april 12 to 14, 19 must-see festivals happening in and around vancouver that you should go to in 2024, 8 free things to do in vancouver this weekend, april 26 to 28, 15 vancouver date ideas for spring that aren't just dinner and a movie, 7 free things to do in vancouver this weekend, april 19 to 21, the narcity itinerary: how to spend an epic 24 hours in vancouver, this week in toronto: best bars, a tim hortons musical, blue jays games on a budget, and more, this week in toronto: italian brunch, cherry blossoms, maple leafs playoff games, and more, canada travel news: travel advisories, all-inclusive vacations & more you may have missed, 10 things i learned after moving from ontario to vancouver island & bc living is so different.

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This Metro Vancouver SkyTrain station is closing for 6 weeks. Here's what to know

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Metro Vancouverites should brace for a significant SkyTrain closure starting this weekend. 

TransLink's six-week-long closure of the King George SkyTrain station in Surrey commences on Saturday, April 27. 

King George is the terminus station for the Expo Line but must be closed for " essential maintenance work " through May and into the first half of June. The Expo Line will temporarily end at Surrey Central Station.

Transit users with trips that typically end or begin at King George must take a bus or get off or on at Surrey Central. They should add 15 minutes of travel time if they typically ride the Expo Line between the two stations.

At Surrey Central Station, trains to Waterfront will depart from either platform and commuters should "check the platform screens to know where the next train will arrive," according to TransLink.

Bus schedule during King George Station closure

Buses will continue serving King George Station during the closure, with some changes:

• Additional buses will run every 15 minutes between King George and Surrey Central stations from 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. on weekdays.
• Bus routes that normally end at King George Station will stop at the station and then extend northbound to terminate at Surrey Central Station.
• Buses that include a stop at King George Station will maintain their regular stops and routes.
• There will be no HandyDART stop at King George Station while the station remains closed. Regular HandyDART services will be available at Surrey Central Station and other stops.

TransLink will have staff present to assist travellers and directional signage, including bus bay changes, to steer them in the right direction.

Contact TransLink's Customer Information team at  604-953-3333 , available daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. For up-to-date service information, visit the  Alerts  page or the King George Closure page. 

With files from Brendan Kergin

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A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary

A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.

My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.

Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.

Day 1: Pool party & pickles

Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.

Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .

In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.

Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).

If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.

After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.

Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats

Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.

You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.

Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.

After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.

After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s .

As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .

Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.

Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.

Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers

It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.

For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.

In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.

For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.

Question Time

When is the best time of year to visit austin.

There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.

Is Austin expensive?

Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Will I need a car to get around Austin?

Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.

Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris

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