Things To Do
in Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering North Shore Mountains. It boasts a multicultural population, reflected in its diverse neighborhoods, cuisine, and cultural festivals.
Renowned for its outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in nearby Whistler to kayaking in English Bay, Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and nature exploration.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $3.25
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk or bike ride along the Seawall, enjoying views of the water and mountains. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium to learn about local marine life.
Have lunch at one of the park's cafes and then explore the totem poles and lush gardens. Spend some time at the beaches, soaking in the sun.
Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant offering fresh local seafood. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront as the sunset paints the sky.
Begin your day with coffee at a local café, then head to Granville Island Public Market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Explore the vibrant shops and galleries on the island.
After lunch, visit the Vancouver Art Gallery to view contemporary Canadian art. Stroll through the nearby Robson Street for shopping and people-watching.
Dine in one of downtown's diverse restaurants, offering international cuisines. If you're up for it, catch a theater performance or concert at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
- Mild climate compared to other Canadian cities.
- Diverse culture and communities, enhancing social experiences.
- Strong economy with opportunities in various industries, including tech and tourism.
- Extensive parks and outdoor recreational activities.
- Excellent public transportation system.
- High quality of life with a focus on sustainability.
- High cost of living and expensive real estate market.
- Rainy weather for a significant part of the year.
- Traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours.
- Public safety concerns related to certain areas and issues like homelessness.
- Limited job market for certain professions compared to larger cities.
- Cultural homogenization may be felt in some neighborhoods.
Best Activities in Vancouver
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore Stanley Park, a 400-hectare natural West Coast rainforest at the city’s doorstep. Hike, bike, or take a leisurely stroll along the seawall with stunning views of the city skyline and mountains.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and wildlife watching at Grouse Mountain. The Skyride aerial tram provides breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
Experience the thrill of crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge and explore the surrounding rainforest through a series of elevated walkways and platforms.
Rent a bike and explore Vancouver’s extensive network of cycling paths, including the popular Stanley Park Seawall and the scenic routes alongside the shoreline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vancouver with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vancouver
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the city skyline, coastal mountains, and waterfront. It's a picturesque spot for photos with plenty of natural beauty.
Provides a 360-degree aerial view of the city from the observation deck, ideal for capturing panoramic photos of Vancouver and its surroundings.
A great location for capturing scenic views of the lush rainforest, the Capilano River, and the iconic suspension bridge, offering ample photo opportunities.
Features well-manicured gardens, a quarry garden, and elevated vantage points with sweeping city vistas, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Vancouver
Vancouver Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, high-quality sushi is a must-try in Vancouver due to its proximity to the ocean. Try traditional nigiri or innovative rolls at acclaimed spots like Tojo's or Miku.
Must-Try!
A unique Japanese-style hot dog with various toppings, blending flavors from East and West. Head to the original Japadog stand on Burrard Street for an authentic experience.
Indulge in this Canadian comfort food consisting of crispy fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy. La Belle Patate and Fritz European Fry House serve up delicious versions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vancouver better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats like organic chocolates and gourmet sandwiches.
An extravaganza of Asian street food, from takoyaki to bubble tea, awaits at this vibrant night market, open during the summer months.
Keep an eye out for food truck festivals across the city, where you can sample a wide range of global cuisines, from tacos to Korean BBQ.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the diverse Indigenous cultures in Vancouver and acknowledge the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Vancouver is a diverse city with a rich tapestry of cultural communities. It is important to be open-minded and respectful towards people from different cultural backgrounds.
Vancouver is known for its stunning natural environment. It is important to be environmentally conscious and show respect for the city's beautiful parks, beaches, and natural spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vancouver with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vancouver
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vancouver, it is customary to tip between 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and hairdressing. Some places may include a service charge, so it's always good to check the bill before tipping.
Vancouver widely accepts credit and debit cards for payments, and contactless payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also popular. Cash is also accepted at most places, but many businesses prefer card or digital payments, especially in the current environment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vancouver.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and mild weather. Expect some rain.
Ideal time for outdoor activities with warm, sunny weather. Expect crowded tourist spots.
Great for fall foliage and fewer crowds. Expect cooler temperatures and occasional rain.
Winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy this season with snow activities. Expect cold, wet weather.
Vancouver at Night
Hiking in Vancouver
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of Vancouver and a variety of trails, including the challenging Grouse Grind.
Famous for its suspension bridge and beautiful forested trails, Lynn Canyon offers a range of hikes suitable for all levels.
This urban park features numerous trails along the seawall, scenic views, and access to various beaches and gardens.
A great spot for both summer and winter activities, offering hiking trails with beautiful vistas overlooking the city and surrounding areas.
A picturesque area with trails leading to the scenic Quarry Rock and the stunning views of Indian Arm.
Located near the University of British Columbia, this park features serene forest trails perfect for walking and hiking.
A popular hike in Mount Seymour Provincial Park, offering a rewarding view of the city and mountains at the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vancouver through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vancouver by plane.
The primary international airport serving Vancouver, located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) from downtown Vancouver.
Situated about 231 km (144 miles) south of Vancouver, this major international airport serves the Seattle metropolitan area.
Located about 70 km (43 miles) east of Vancouver, this airport offers international flights with a focus on budget airlines.
Approximately 88 km (55 miles) south of Vancouver, this airport serves as a secondary option for international travel, especially to Mexico and the United States.
Located about 367 km (228 miles) south of Vancouver, PDX is a major international airport serving the Portland area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily of British, Irish, and Italian descent.
Significant populations include Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and Vietnamese communities.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit populations, with a rich cultural heritage.
Comprising individuals of African and Caribbean descent.
A growing community, including individuals from various countries in Latin America.
Includes individuals with ancestry from countries in the Middle East.
A diverse range of ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Vancouver
Discover the essence of Vancouver through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Vancouver, with the Vancouver Canucks being the city's professional team. The sport draws significant local and national attention.
Soccer has gained popularity in Vancouver, particularly with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC representing the city in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Basketball is popular at both community and professional levels, with the Vancouver Bandits competing in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).
The BC Lions represent Vancouver in the Canadian Football League (CFL), and Canadian football enjoys a dedicated local following.
Lacrosse is recognized as Canada's national summer sport and has a strong presence in Vancouver, with teams like the Vancouver Warriors.
Running events and marathons are popular in Vancouver, taking advantage of the city’s scenic parks and waterfront.
With bike-friendly infrastructure and beautiful landscapes, cycling is a favored recreational activity and sport in Vancouver.
Vancouver’s proximity to water makes rowing a popular sport, with several clubs and regattas taking place throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vancouver.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vancouver abounds with restaurants and cafes catering to vegetarians and vegans. Look for dedicated plant-based eateries like Meet on Main or Heirloom Vegetarian.
Many establishments offer gluten-free menu options, and specialized bakeries such as Lemonade Gluten Free Bakery provide excellent gluten-free baked goods.
Several cafes and ice cream shops in Vancouver provide dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut or almond milk-based ice creams.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vancouver with these cultural adventures.
