Located on Canada’s West Coast in British Columbia, Vancouver is a vibrant, diverse city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and majestic mountains. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, it offers much more than stunning views – Vancouver is a hub of culture, creativity, and adventure.
Vancouver Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know
Each year, visitors from around the world flock to Vancouver for its world-class attractions and unforgettable experiences. Beyond being a tourist hotspot, it’s also one of the most desirable places to live, consistently ranking among the world’s best cities for its quality of life, making it a popular choice for those relocating abroad for work or personal reasons.
Vancouver’s Neighbourhoods
Vancouver is made up of many neighbourhoods and communities, all of which have their own individual personalities. From the buzz of Robson Street to the historic charm of Gastown, each area is unique in its own way.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular areas to explore:
Gastown
Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, founded in 1867 with a single tavern. It retains its historical charm and independent character, with Victorian architecture housing a thriving fashion scene, décor boutiques, galleries, and great cuisine. It’s popular with trendy locals and is perfect for exploring on foot. Located from Richards to Main Street and south to Hastings Street, Gastown is a must-visit spot.
Don’t miss the famous steam clock on Water Street – it whistles every 15 minutes and has become one of Vancouver’s most photographed landmarks. The neighbourhood comes alive in the evening with its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, making it ideal for a night out.
Robson Street
Robson Street, stretching from BC Place Stadium to Stanley Park, is an essential walk for anyone visiting Vancouver. Located in the heart of downtown, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant urban life – from locals starting work to students heading to college. It’s a great place to experience the excitement of Vancouver.
This shopping street is lined with international brands, local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s particularly lively during evenings and weekends, and you’ll often hear multiple languages being spoken, reflecting Vancouver’s diverse population.
Yaletown
Yaletown was once the westernmost stop for the Canadian Pacific Railway. The area experienced revitalisation in 1986 when it hosted the World’s Fair. Over the years, it has transformed into a chic and sought-after destination. Today, it’s a trendy neighbourhood home to residential lofts, cafes, restaurants, shops, and parks. Situated on the south side of downtown Vancouver, it’s bordered by Homer Street, Robson Street, and False Creek.
The area’s converted warehouses now house upscale restaurants and boutiques, while the waterfront offers beautiful walking paths along False Creek. It’s perfect for a leisurely brunch or evening cocktails.
West End
The West End, located just off downtown Vancouver, is a diverse and upscale area with a rich history. Home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community, many historic homes, and a large population in the many high-rise apartment buildings, there are beautiful parks, beaches, and a vibrant dining scene, making it an easily explorable and lively area.
Denman Street is the neighbourhood’s main artery, packed with restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. Walk to English Bay for stunning sunset views, or explore the leafy residential streets to see some of Vancouver’s oldest homes.
Coal Harbour
Although it’s downtown, Coal Harbour feels like it’s a world away with its quieter waterfront experience. Offering a great choice of cafes and restaurants, it’s a popular area. Many enjoy walking along the seawall, as it’s so easily accessible, and it offers great views over the marina.
The neighbourhood is also home to the floatplane terminal, where you’ll see seaplanes taking off and landing throughout the day—a quintessentially Vancouver sight. It’s a peaceful spot for a morning coffee before exploring the city.
Kitsilano (Kits)
Across False Creek from downtown, Kitsilano is Vancouver’s laid-back beach neighbourhood. It’s known for its yoga studios, organic cafes, and the popular Kitsilano Beach. Fourth Avenue is lined with independent shops, vintage stores, and casual restaurants.
Kits attracts a younger crowd and has a distinctly West Coast vibe. It’s perfect for spending a sunny afternoon on the beach, followed by fish tacos and a craft beer at one of the many local spots.
Granville Island
Technically not an island but a peninsula under the Granville Bridge, Granville Island deserves special mention. The Public Market is the star attraction, but the entire area is worth exploring for its artisan studios, theatres, and waterfront restaurants.
What’s the Weather Like in Vancouver?
People often draw their own conclusions about what the weather in Vancouver is like, usually thinking it’ll be too cold or too wet. In fact, Vancouver generally gets warmer temperatures than the rest of the country. Based on the West Coast of Canada, the temperatures don’t tend to drop as much as they would further inland or in the mountain regions.
Vancouver has four distinct seasons, so it will depend on the time of year you visit. There’s no good or bad time to visit Vancouver – it depends on you and what you’re wanting to experience.
Here’s a breakdown of the seasons, along with what to expect:
What Airports are in Vancouver?
Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
The main airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), located approximately 25 minutes from Downtown Vancouver. The airport serves many international routes including direct flights from Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States, as well as numerous domestic services within Canada.
YVR consistently ranks among the world’s best airports for its efficiency, cleanliness, and impressive Indigenous art installations throughout the terminals. It’s well connected to downtown via the Canada Line SkyTrain, making arrival straightforward.
Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre
If you’re travelling within Canada to a small coastal community, or even to Whistler or Vancouver Island, there are several seaplane services operating from the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, located in the heart of Vancouver. It’s certainly an adventurous and memorable experience—watching seaplanes take off and land in the harbour is a quintessentially Vancouver sight.
Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)
There’s also an airport called Abbotsford International Airport (YXX), located over an hour from Downtown Vancouver. It offers an alternative choice of flights, primarily domestic routes within Canada and some US destinations, often at lower fares than YVR.
How to get around Vancouver?
Vancouver is a very walkable city and quite easy to navigate, making it perfect if you’re happy for a brisk walk. It’s also very bike-friendly, with numerous cycling paths throughout the city, including the famous seawall route around Stanley Park.
Public Transport
Vancouver has an extensive public transport system operated by TransLink, covering the city and beyond. The system includes:
SkyTrain: An automated rapid transit system with three lines connecting major areas. The Canada Line goes directly to the airport, while the Expo and Millennium lines serve other parts of Metro Vancouver. It’s fast, frequent, and easy to use.
Buses: An extensive bus network covers areas the SkyTrain doesn’t reach. Buses are generally frequent during the day, though less so in the evenings.
SeaBus: A passenger ferry connecting downtown Vancouver with North Vancouver. It’s part of the transit system and offers beautiful views of the harbour.
You’ll need a Compass Card (available at SkyTrain stations and many shops) or you can tap your credit/debit card on the fare readers. Day passes are available for unlimited travel.
Hop-On Hop-Off Buses
For tourists, hop-on hop-off bus tours remain very popular. They cover major attractions and provide commentary about the city’s history and landmarks. It’s a convenient way to get your bearings when you first arrive.
Bikes and Scooters
Bike rentals are available throughout the city, including bike-share programmes. The seawall is one of the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront paths – perfect for cycling. Electric scooters are also available for rent in many areas.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
You can also opt for a taxi or Uber for more private transport. They’re readily available downtown and can be booked via apps. They’re particularly useful for late-night travel or when you’ve done too much shopping!
Top things to do in Vancouver
With so much to do and see in Vancouver, it’s hard to mention them all, but here are some of the absolute must-visits:
Stanley Park
Located near the West End, Stanley Park is widely known as one of the world’s great urban parks, spreading over 1,000 acres. Home to many landmarks including the Hollow Tree, the Lost Lagoon, and the Siwash Rock, as well as numerous scenic trails and many attractions suitable for all ages.
Don’t miss:
- The Seawall: Walk or cycle the 9-kilometre path around the park’s perimeter for stunning views
- Totem Poles: Visit Brockton Point to see a collection of First Nations totem poles
- Third Beach: Perfect for sunset watching
- Prospect Point: Offers panoramic views of Lions Gate Bridge and North Shore mountains
- Vancouver Aquarium: Home to marine life from the Pacific Northwest and beyond (separate admission)
Allow at least half a day to explore Stanley Park properly. It’s an absolute must-do for any Vancouver visitor.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Located a short 15-minute drive from Vancouver, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is home to some amazing attractions. The iconic Suspension Bridge stretches 137 metres and is elevated 70 metres above the Capilano River. Plus, there’s a Cliffwalk – a series of bridges and platforms wrapped around a cliff—as well as the Treetops Adventure, providing you with an amazing bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.
The park has been a Vancouver attraction for over 130 years and offers a thrilling experience walking high above the forest floor. There are also cultural demonstrations, seasonal events, and beautiful forest trails. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit.
Budget tip: Lynn Canyon Park offers a free suspension bridge alternative, though it’s smaller and less developed. It’s a great option if you’re watching your spending.
Granville Island
Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s neighbourhoods that is full of life, with its bustling Public Market as an iconic feature. Located under the Granville Bridge, it’s very popular with locals and visitors, offering a fantastic selection of culinary options and unique experiences.
The Public Market is a food lover’s paradise with fresh produce, baked goods, artisan foods, and prepared meals from around the world. Beyond the market, you’ll find:
- Artisan studios and galleries
- Granville Island Brewing (tours available)
- Theatres and performance spaces
- Waterfront dining
- Kids Market (if travelling with children)
- Water taxis and kayak rentals
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here. It’s perfect for lunch and can easily fill an entire afternoon.
Grouse Mountain
Whether you love skiing or snowboarding, or perhaps you’re a hiking enthusiast, Grouse Mountain will have something for you. A short distance from Vancouver, visitors can reach the peak by taking the Skyride Gondola, where you’ll be greeted with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding area.
Summer activities:
- The Grouse Grind: Known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” this challenging 2.9km hike gains 853 metres. It’s free to hike up, though you’ll pay to ride the gondola down.
- Lumberjack Shows: Daily demonstrations of traditional logging skills
- Grizzly Bear Habitat: See resident grizzly bears Grinder and Coola
- Mountain-top hiking trails: Various trails with incredible views
- Birds in Motion: Raptor demonstrations
Winter activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Ice skating (free with admission)
- Snowshoeing
- Peak of Christmas light displays (seasonal)
The views from the top are spectacular year-round, particularly at sunset when you can see the city lights come on below.
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
While a bit further from downtown, the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is worth the journey. This world-renowned museum showcases Indigenous art and culture from coastal British Columbia and around the world.
The building itself is architectural art, designed by renowned architect Arthur Erickson. Inside, you’ll find impressive totem poles, intricate carvings, and Bill Reid’s famous sculpture “The Raven and the First Men.” The outdoor area features traditional Haida houses and additional totem poles.
It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Indigenous cultures and art. Admission is free on Thursday evenings.
Vancouver Lookout
For 360-degree views of Vancouver, head to the Vancouver Lookout atop the Harbour Centre. The glass elevator takes you 168 metres up in less than a minute. From the observation deck, you can see Stanley Park, North Shore mountains, English Bay, and the entire city sprawled below.
It’s particularly spectacular at sunset, and your ticket is valid all day, so you can return for night views if you wish.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Downtown’s main art museum features rotating exhibitions alongside its permanent collection, which includes substantial holdings of Emily Carr’s work (British Columbia’s most celebrated historical artist). The building itself—a former courthouse—is beautiful, and the gallery hosts excellent contemporary exhibitions.
Science World
You can’t miss Science World’s distinctive geodesic dome on False Creek. This hands-on science museum is brilliant for families but entertaining for all ages. Interactive exhibits cover everything from physics to biology, and there’s usually an OMNIMAX theatre showing with an immersive film experience.
How Many Days Do You Need in Vancouver?
For a good introduction to Vancouver, plan for 3-4 days minimum. This gives you time to explore Stanley Park, visit major attractions like Capilano or Grouse Mountain, wander through neighbourhoods, and experience the food scene.
A week allows you to take day trips to Whistler or Victoria, explore more neighbourhoods in depth, and truly relax into the city’s rhythm.
If you’re considering a longer stay or even relocating, our Moving to Canada guide covers everything you need to know about making Vancouver your home.
Door to Door Shipping
My Baggage offers a Door to Door Shipping service of Luggage, Boxes & Sports Equipment to Canada & beyond to 200+ countries worldwide. An ideal solution if you’re Moving, Studying or Travelling abroad.
Simply get a quote online, print & attach your labels, we’ll then collect & deliver your items. Full Online Tracking is provided from start to finish.
With over 200,000 happy customers, our service offers flexible booking options and dedicated customer support. You can book with confidence, knowing that we have got you covered.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
Ultimate Moving Guides
What is Luggage Shipping?
Travel Checklist: Everything You Need To Know
