Destination guide

Vancouver

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Vancouver has mountains, ocean and a modern city all within a few minutes of each other. It is one of the most beautiful cities in North America, and one of the best for outdoor activities, from forest trails to beaches to ski slopes.

It is a good base for Whistler, Vancouver Island and the Rockies.

How many days: 4

Four days covers the city, the park, a mountain and a day trip. Three is enough for the highlights.

Weather is changeable, so keep a flexible plan.

What to do in Vancouver

Cycle or walk around Stanley Park
A huge forested park on the waterfront, with a seawall path, beaches and totem poles.
Visit Granville Island
A food market, craft shops and small theatres on a former industrial site. Take a small ferry across.
Walk across a suspension bridge
Several forest parks near the city have suspension bridges over deep valleys. Some are free.
Take the gondola up a mountain
A cable car takes you to a viewpoint with trails. In winter, it serves ski areas.
Explore Gastown
A historic quarter with cobbled streets and a famous steam clock. A good place for an evening.
Relax on a city beach
English Bay and Kitsilano are popular for swimming and sunsets in summer.
Take a day trip to Whistler
A mountain resort with skiing in winter and hiking and biking in summer. Buses and the scenic road link it to the city.
Go whale watching
Boat trips from nearby harbours search for orcas and humpback whales. Book with an ethical operator.
Visit a First Nations art gallery
Museums and galleries show carvings, totems and contemporary work by local Indigenous artists.
Walk along the Capilano or Lynn Valley trails
Short forest walks take you into old-growth trees and cool rivers close to the city.
Rent a kayak
Calm waters near the city make for easy paddling with mountain views.
Visit a lookout in the north shore
Viewpoints show the city, harbour and mountains in one frame. Best on a clear morning.
Browse Chinatown and Main Street
A mix of old Chinese shops, cafes and street art in two neighbourhoods.
Visit a public market on the waterfront
Food stalls sell fresh local produce, seafood and baked goods. A good lunch stop.

What to eat and drink

Fresh seafood
Salmon, oysters and crab are local specialities.
Sushi
The city has excellent Japanese food, thanks to a large Japanese community.
Dim sum
Richmond, a short ride away, is known for some of the best Chinese food in North America.
Nanaimo bars
A layered chocolate dessert from the region.
Craft beer
Many small breweries have tasting rooms.
Coffee
The coffee scene is strong, with many small roasters.
Japadogs and street food
Japanese-style hot dogs are a local street food.
Farm-to-table dining
Many restaurants focus on local produce and seasonal menus.
Salmon in many forms
Smoked, grilled or cured, it is a regional staple.

Getting around

The SkyTrain, buses and ferries use one fare system. A contactless bank card or phone works on most.

Walking and cycling are popular, and the seawall paths are flat.

Taxis and ride-hailing are available.

Good to know

  • Rain is common, especially from autumn to spring. Carry a waterproof layer.
  • Mountains can still have snow well into spring. Check conditions before hiking.
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants and bars.
  • Tell someone where you are going before you hike, and bring water.
  • Visitors from many countries need an electronic travel authorisation. Check the official site.
  • The best weather is in summer, but winter has skiing close to the city.
  • Many attractions are outside the city, so a car or tour makes day trips easier.
  • Cycling is easy on the flat seawall, and bikes are easy to hire.
  • The city is spread out, so pick a neighbourhood as a base and use transit.
  • Cloud and rain often lift by midday. Keep a flexible plan for mountain trips.

Where to stay in Vancouver

6 neighbourhoods, described the way a friend would - what each is actually like, not the brochure version.

Downtown Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver places visitors close to the waterfront, major shopping streets, restaurants, nightlife and several of the city's main attractions. It is the easiest all-round base for first-time visitors, though hotel rates are high and some blocks feel busy late into the evening.

Coal Harbour

Coal Harbour is an upscale waterfront neighbourhood beside Stanley Park, with marina views, luxury hotels and scenic walking routes. It is particularly strong for couples and relaxed stays, although nightlife is limited and accommodation tends to be expensive.

Yaletown

Yaletown combines converted warehouse buildings, waterfront paths, fashionable restaurants and cocktail bars just south of downtown. It suits couples and younger travellers looking for polished nightlife, but hotel prices are high and the area has less traditional sightseeing.

West End

The West End is a leafy residential district between downtown and Stanley Park, with restaurants, cafés and easy access to English Bay. It offers one of the best balances of beach access, greenery and central convenience, although nightlife is more subdued.

Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver's historic core, known for cobbled streets, heritage buildings, boutiques, bars and restaurants. It is atmospheric and central, but some surrounding streets can feel rougher and less comfortable late at night.

Kitsilano

Kitsilano is a relaxed residential neighbourhood with one of Vancouver's best-known beaches, independent cafés and views toward downtown and the mountains. It suits summer stays and travellers wanting a local feel, although it is less convenient for central sightseeing and business.

What it costs

A typical day in Vancouver, per person, in pounds.

£43

Shoestring - hostels, street food, public transport.

£120

Comfortable - a decent hotel, restaurants, the odd taxi.

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