While exploring this western seaport city in Canada’s British Columbia, don’t be surprised if you stumble onto a film set. Nicknamed Hollywood North, Vancouver has become the backdrop for countless films and television shows. For observation of a different kind, the Museum of Anthropology houses exhibits featuring First Nations artifacts, while bay views are best seen from the urban rain forest of Stanley Park. And for those seeking the slopes, venture north to Whistler, home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
Vancouver bursts into color in spring, when the annual Cherry Blossom Festival heralds the arrival of the powder-pink blooms. April and May are best for spotting migrating whales, and in winter, the city makes an ideal base for exploring British Columbia’s best skiing spots, which include Whistler and Fernie.
Attractions 54 | Tours 610 | Reviews 34,102 |
Rosie's sister lives in Vancouver and she visits whenever she can. Find her exploring the city’s best hangouts, cycling endlessly up and down the tree-lined avenues, and skiing on Cypress Mountain.
rent a scooter from Cycle BC to zip around the city and get familiar with all the sights.
starts with brunch at Heirloom, before riding around the False Creek seawall and stopping at Granville Island Market for Lee’s donuts. In the evening, play Spike Ball on Kits beach or take a brewery tour.
Stanley Park. There are lots of trails, a shrinking lake, and even a city beach where drum circles gather on sunny Tuesday evenings.
head down Commercial Drive in East Van and explore the many bars, restaurants, and local shops.
go to Queen Elizabeth Park, the highest point in Vancouver with lots of lovely gardens. For a closer view, visit Vanier Park instead and make sure to walk across Burrard Bridge.
is not realizing Vancouver's weather is actually pretty lovely in the summer—there are even days with no rain.
Vancouver is known for its scenery and proximity to the great outdoors. While it certainly has its fair share of skyscrapers, its numerous parks and easy access to old-growth forests, beaches, and mountains add a sylvan twist to the urban vibe. Vancouver’s also known for food, with restaurants representing cuisine from across the globe.
...MoreMany of Vancouver's not-to-be-missed attractions revolve around the natural world, from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to massive Stanley Park, home to the popular Vancouver Aquarium. Historic Gastown is another must-visit for its architecture alone, and is a great place to get a taste of the city’s fantastic culinary scene.
...MoreSpend your first day exploring downtown attractions such as Canada Place and Gastown before heading out to visit Granville Island and its famous market. On day two, make your way out to Stanley Park and then continue up to the North Shore to check out the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
...MoreThe most beautiful part of Vancouver varies by who you ask. Nature lovers will find areas further north, particularly on the North Shore, to be the clear winners. For fantastic views of the cityscape against a mountainous background, head up to the Vancouver Lookout at the top of the Harbour Centre.
...MoreMany of Vancouver's most interesting attractions won't cost you a penny, from checking out the historic architecture in Gastown to taking a seaside stroll in scenic Stanley Park. The Gothic Revival-style Christ Church Cathedral is also free to visit, and the Vancouver Art Gallery is free on Tuesday evenings.
...MoreVancouver can be expensive, and while you can easily find plenty of great food to eat on a budget, accommodation tends to be on the higher side. If you don’t need to stay right in the heart of the city, you can find affordable hotels in nearby communities such as Burnaby and Richmond.
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