Things to do

Things to do in Vancouver: must-sees and where to stay

Published on · 2 min read

Ideal for: CouplesSoloFamiliesSeniors

Vancouver's towers reflected in the water, seen from Stanley Park
Contents

In short: Vancouver is lived between ocean and mountains. Go round Stanley Park on the seawall, browse the Granville Island market, discover Gastown and Chinatown, cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge, head up Grouse Mountain, and set off for Whistler or Vancouver Island. Pack a rain jacket outside summer.

Stanley Park and the seawall

A large wooded park at the tip of downtown, Stanley Park is explored along its waterfront promenade, the seawall, on foot or by bike. Along the way are totem poles and fine views of the city and mountains.

Granville Island

Under a bridge, the former industrial area of Granville Island hosts a big public market, artisan studios and theatres. Little ferry boats take you there from downtown.

Gastown and Chinatown

Gastown, the historic district, lines up cobbled streets, shops and restaurants around its famous steam clock. Nearby, Chinatown is home to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

Capilano and Grouse Mountain

North of the harbour, the Capilano Suspension Bridge spans a canyon above the forest. Nearby, Grouse Mountain, reached by aerial tramway, offers a view over the whole city.

Beaches and sunsets

The beaches of English Bay and Kitsilano are the places to be on sunny days, and for sunsets over the Pacific.

Day trips from Vancouver

  • Whistler, via the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway.
  • Victoria and Vancouver Island, by ferry.
  • The North Shore mountains, for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

Getting around

  • The SkyTrain, buses and SeaBus serve the city and the North Shore.
  • From the airport (YVR), the SkyTrain’s Canada Line reaches Waterfront station downtown in about 25 minutes.
  • By bike, the seawall and cycle lanes are very pleasant.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Canada.

Where to stay in Vancouver?

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  • Downtown and Coal Harbour. Near the harbour, Stanley Park and the SkyTrain. Ideal for: first visit.
  • Gastown. The historic district, its cobbles, steam clock and restaurants. Ideal for: couples, restaurants.
  • Yaletown. Former warehouses turned into bars and restaurants, by the marina. Ideal for: couples, nightlife.
  • Kitsilano. Beaches, parks and a relaxed feel, across False Creek. Ideal for: families, beach.

The areas and useful services are on our Vancouver page.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Vancouver?

Three days for the city, Stanley Park, Granville Island and the North Shore, plus one or two days for Whistler or Victoria.

Do I need an authorisation for Canada?

Flying in, most European travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Apply on the Government of Canada's official website.

When should I visit Vancouver?

Summer is the driest and sunniest season; winter is mild but rainy, with skiing close by.