Canada

Vancouver

Where mountains meet the sea and every neighbourhood has its own flavour.

Local time: UTC-8
Population: 0.66M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Very expensive

Food$$$$$About $63 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $242 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $10.0 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇨🇦 CAD =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

YVRVancouver International AirportMain hub, 11 km south of centre on Sea Island.

How	Cost	Time
SkyTrain Canada LineDowntown (Waterfront)	CAD 9-10	25 min
Includes YVR AddFare on airport departures only.
Bus N10Downtown	CAD 3-4	40-50 min
Overnight service when SkyTrain is closed.
TaxiDowntown	CAD 40-45	20-30 min
Fixed zone fare from airport; cards accepted.
Uber / LyftDowntown	CAD 35-50	20-30 min
Pickup at designated rideshare zone.

YXXAbbotsford International AirportAlternate low-cost airport about 60 km east.

How	Cost	Time
Intercity busPacific Central Station	CAD 20-35	60-90 min
No local transit link; book ahead.
TaxiDowntown	CAD 100-140	60-90 min
Drive via Highway 1; traffic varies.
Uber / LyftDowntown	check locally	60-90 min
Availability varies; check the app.

BLIBellingham International AirportUS budget airport about 85 km south, plus border time.

How	Cost	Time
Shuttle busDowntown	CAD 50-60	2-3 h
Runs to Vancouver; allow for border waits.
TaxiDowntown	check locally	1.5-2.5 h
Cross-border trip; confirm fare first.
Uber / LyftDowntown	check locally	1.5-2.5 h
Cross-border rides are limited; check the app.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Vancouver

Getting around

SkyTrain for the airport and downtown; walk or bike the seawall.

Metro ★SkyTrain Canada Line links YVR to downtown in about 25 minutes. Expo and Millennium lines plus SeaBus ferries cover the region.
BusTransLink buses run frequent local routes; N10 runs overnight from the airport.
Taxi / ride appsTaxis accept credit cards; Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver.
Rental carDriving is easy outside rush hour; downtown parking is costly.
Walking ★Walking and bike share (Mobi) suit the compact downtown and seawall.
FerrySeaBus ferries are part of TransLink and cross to North Vancouver.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown; add a night for the North Shore mountains.

Best for

NatureStanley Park, the seawall and the North Shore mountains.
FoodGranville Island, Asian eats and seafood.

Weather by month

6°2°Jan🌧 18d

6°1°Feb🌧 16d

9°3°Mar🌧 16d

12°5°Apr🌧 15d

16°9°May🌧 9d

19°12°Jun🌧 10d

22°15°Jul🌧 5d

23°15°Aug🌧 6d

18°12°Sep🌧 12d

13°8°Oct🌧 15d

9°4°Nov🌧 19d

6°1°Dec🌧 20d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Mild coastal climate: wet, cool winters and warm, dry summers. Rain is common from October to March.

Best time: June to SeptemberWarm highs of 19–23°C and the fewest rain days. Ideal for parks, beaches and the seawall.
Wet wintersNovember to January brings 19–20 rain days a month. Pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Mild, not freezingWinter highs stay near 6°C and lows near 1–2°C. Snow is uncommon downtown.
Short beach seasonJuly and August are the only reliably warm beach months, around 22–23°C.
Spring is showeryMarch to May warms from 9°C to 16°C but rain days stay at 9–16. Bring layers.
What to packLayers, a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes year-round; sunscreen and a hat for summer.

Landmarks 27

Must-see · 8

1
Stanley Park
Vancouver's defining green space, a huge waterfront park with a famous seawall, beaches and old-growth forest. It is the first place most visitors head for. Tip: walk or cycle the seawall early in the morning to avoid crowds, and rent a bike near the entrance.
2
Granville Island
A lively urban hub with a public market, food stalls, galleries and waterfront views. It is a must-see for the atmosphere and local food. Tip: take the small False Creek ferry across for a scenic and cheap arrival.
3
Canada Place
The sail-roofed pier on the downtown waterfront, one of the city's most recognizable sights. It offers views over the harbour and mountains. Tip: go on a clear day for the best photos and combine it with a walk along the waterfront.
4
Gastown Steam Clock
A quirky steam-powered clock in the historic Gastown district, a classic photo stop. The surrounding cobbled streets are good for a wander. Tip: it whistles on the quarter hour, so time your visit to hear it.
5
Capilano Suspension Bridge
A dramatic suspension bridge over a forested canyon, a top attraction just outside downtown. It is popular for the treetop walkways and cliff walk. Tip: book tickets online and arrive early, as it gets busy midday.
6
Grouse Mountain
A mountain with a gondola ride and sweeping views over the city and coast. It is a signature Vancouver experience. Tip: check the weather before going, since views disappear in cloud, and dress warmly at the top.
7
Vancouver Aquarium
A well-known aquarium inside Stanley Park with marine exhibits and family-friendly displays. It pairs naturally with a park visit. Tip: buy tickets ahead and go on a weekday morning for fewer crowds.
8
Lions Gate Bridge
An iconic green suspension bridge linking downtown to the North Shore, with great views. It is a landmark worth seeing even briefly. Tip: walk or cycle across for the best experience, as parking nearby is limited.

Cultural

Modern Architecture 2

Bridge 3

Old Town 1

Garden 2

Urban Hub 1

Museum 5

Park 3

University 1

Skyscraper 1

Natural

Beach 2

River 1

Mountain 1

Activities

Amusement Park 2

Cruise Tour 1

Aquarium 1

Day trips from Vancouver

Squamish · 1 h 00 by bus

★★★☆☆ · Full day · 65 km from Vancouver

Best way: A direct coach from downtown reaches Squamish in about an hour with no changes, dropping you near the sights.

Take the BC Ferries connector or a direct coach from downtown Vancouver; the Sea to Sky Highway route runs straight to Squamish with no changes needed.

Bus ★1 h 00 · from $22-$55
Car1 h 08 · taxi ≈ 170 CAD

What to see

Sea to Sky Gondola
Shannon Falls
Squamish Estuary trails
Downtown Squamish

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Book the coach ahead in summer, when seats fill up
The Sea to Sky Highway views are best on clear days
Bring layers; weather changes quickly in the mountains

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Vancouver rewards visitors with mountains, beaches, and world-class food all within easy reach. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Food

A tasty day: market grazing, Chinatown lunch and an easy dinner in.

Stay: Downtown. Central for SkyTrain, shops and the seawall; walk to most sights.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,701

Day 1

Market, Chinatown and dinner

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,701

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

09:30–10:30 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–15

Granville Island Public Market

Go weekday morning to beat crowds. Usually 09:00–18:00; check on the day.

Open Usually 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
2

10:45–12:15 · Free to enter · pay per item at the market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Wander the studios and waterfront. The False Creek Ferry is a fun way back.

Open Public Market roughly 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

13:00–14:30 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–20

Chinatown food walk

Lunchtime food walk. Most shops 10:00–18:00; check on the day.

Open Daytime, most shops 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 1233 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

14:45–15:05 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Short walk from Chinatown. It whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 10 min · ≈ CAD 1,328
5

18:30–19:00 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Pick up a pizza for an easy meal in. Branches vary; check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 9 min · ≈ CAD 1,328

1 night · Nature

First-timers who want the seawall, the park and one mountain view in a single day.

Stay: West End. Quiet streets next to Stanley Park and English Bay beaches.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,812
Hotel: CAD 160–350

Day 1

Arrive, Stanley Park and the seawall

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,704

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–16:00 · Free to enter · parking paid

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Start at the West End entrance. Park drive is one-way for cars.

Open Open 24 hours · park drive one-way for cars · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

16:15–18:15 · Bike rental roughly CAD 15–30 per hour · check on the day

Seawall bike ride

Rentals are daytime only, so start by late afternoon. Check on the day.

Open Rentals daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 1027 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

18:45–19:45 · Free

English Bay Beach

Sunset spot in summer. Easy walk from the West End.

Open Always open · swimming in summer · Source
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,330
4

20:00–20:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy takeaway dinner. Branch hours vary, check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,329

Day 2

Grouse Mountain, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 108

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 15 km · ≈ 45 min · ≈ CAD 40
1

08:30–11:30 · Gondola ticket roughly CAD 60–80 · check on the day

Grouse Mountain gondola

Go early for clear views. Hours vary by season, check on the day.

Open Daily, hours vary by season · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 14 km · ≈ 42 min · ≈ CAD 38
2

12:30–13:15 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade walk on the way back downtown.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

13:45–14:15 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Short daytime crossing. Check on the day.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CAD 15

1 night · Food

Visitors who plan the day around markets, snacks and a Chinatown lunch.

Stay: Yaletown. Lively restaurants and bars by the water; easy Canada Line access.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,754
Hotel: CAD 220–480

Day 1

Arrive, Granville Island and False Creek

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,679

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1410 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

12:00–13:00 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–15

Granville Island Public Market

Weekday mornings are quieter. Usually 09:00–18:00, check on the day.

Open Usually 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
2

13:15–15:45 · Free to enter · pay per item at the market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Wander the studios and waterfront after eating.

Open Public Market roughly 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 413 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

16:00–16:30 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Daytime service only, check on the day.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 528 km · ≈ 24 h 4 min · ≈ CAD 1,323
4

19:00–19:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy meal in. Branch hours vary, check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 6 min · ≈ CAD 1,325

Day 2

Chinatown lunch, Gastown, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 75

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

11:00–12:30 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–20

Chinatown food walk

Lunchtime is best. Most shops 10:00–18:00, check on the day.

Open Daytime, most shops 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 789 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

13:00–14:00 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Short walk from Chinatown. Shops are daytime.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

14:15–14:35 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 622 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

15:00–15:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Waterfront walk before you leave.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

1 night · Culture

Our pick for most visitors: Indigenous art at UBC, then Gastown and the waterfront.

Stay: Downtown. Central for SkyTrain, shops and the seawall; walk to most sights.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,779
Hotel: CAD 200–450

Day 1

Arrive, UBC and the Museum of Anthropology

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,704

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 12 km · ≈ 38 min · ≈ CAD 35
1

12:30–14:30 · Free to walk the campus · museums ticketed

University of British Columbia (UBC) Landmark quest

Campus is open daily. Buildings vary, check on the day.

Open Campus open daily · buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

14:45–16:45 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 18–25 · check on the day

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Landmark quest

Closed Mondays in some seasons. Usually 10:00–17:00, check on the day.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons · usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 8 min · ≈ CAD 1,326
3

19:00–19:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy dinner back downtown. Branch hours vary.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 9 min · ≈ CAD 1,328

Day 2

Gastown, waterfront, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 75

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1342 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

10:00–11:00 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Shops are daytime. Late afternoon is livelier but you leave today.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

11:15–11:35 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 622 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

12:00–12:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade open daily, check on the day.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

13:30–16:00 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 25–35 · check on the day

Science World Landmark quest

Usually 10:00–17:00, check on the day. Short ride from downtown.

Open Daily, usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

2 nights · Nature ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want parks, water and mountain views without rushing.

Stay: West End. Quiet streets next to Stanley Park and English Bay beaches.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,846
Hotel: CAD 320–700

Day 1

Arrive, Stanley Park and the seawall

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–16:00 · Free to enter · parking paid

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Start at the West End entrance. The park drive is one-way for cars.

Open Open 24 hours · park drive one-way for cars · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

16:15–18:15 · Bike rental roughly CAD 15–30 per hour · check on the day

Seawall bike ride

Rent a bike near the park. Rentals are daytime only, so check closing time.

Open Rentals daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 1027 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

18:45–19:45 · Free

English Bay Beach

Sunset over the water in summer. Easy walk from the West End.

Open Always open · swimming in summer · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 899 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15

Day 2

Granville Island, False Creek and a viewpoint

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,688

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

09:30–12:00 · Free to enter · pay per item at the market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Go on a weekday morning to beat crowds. Public Market hours vary, check on the day.

Open Public Market roughly 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 413 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

12:15–12:45 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Short hop across False Creek. Daytime service only.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CAD 16
3

14:00–15:00 · Free

Queen Elizabeth Park viewpoint

Clear late afternoon is best. About 20 minutes by taxi or bus.

Open Park open daily, usually dawn to dusk · Source
Taxi · 524 km · ≈ 23 h 53 min · ≈ CAD 1,313
4

18:00–18:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy takeaway dinner. Branch hours vary, check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,329

Day 3

North Shore mountains, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 98

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CAD 25
1

09:00–11:30 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 60–75 · check on the day

Capilano Suspension Bridge Landmark quest

Go first thing to avoid lines. Hours vary by season, check on the day.

Open Daily, usually 09:00–17:00 or later in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ CAD 20
2

12:30–15:30 · Gondola ticket roughly CAD 60–80 · check on the day

Grouse Mountain gondola

Gondola up for views. Hours vary by season, check on the day.

Open Daily, hours vary by season · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 14 km · ≈ 42 min · ≈ CAD 38
3

17:00–17:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade walk before you head to the airport. Check hours on the day.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

Visitors who plan the day around markets, snacks and a good dinner.

Stay: Yaletown. Lively restaurants and bars by the water; easy Canada Line access.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 5,439
Hotel: CAD 440–960

Day 1

Arrive, market and False Creek

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,679

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1410 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–14:00 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–15

Granville Island Public Market

Weekday morning is quietest, but an early afternoon works too. Check hours on the day.

Open Usually 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
2

14:15–16:45 · Free to enter · pay per item at the market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Wander the studios and food stalls.

Open Public Market roughly 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 413 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

17:00–17:30 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Ride across for the water views. Daytime service only.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 528 km · ≈ 24 h 4 min · ≈ CAD 1,323
4

19:00–19:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy meal in. Branch hours vary, check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 6 min · ≈ CAD 1,325

Day 2

Gastown and Chinatown eats

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 75

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

10:30–11:30 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Shops open daytime. Streets are best late afternoon.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

11:45–12:05 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 1233 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

12:30–14:00 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–20

Chinatown food walk

Lunchtime food walk. Most shops 10:00–18:00, check on the day.

Open Daytime, most shops 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

15:00–15:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Walk the promenade. Check hours on the day.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

Day 3

Park morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,685

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

09:00–12:00 · Free to enter · parking paid

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Morning is calm. Grab a snack inside the park.

Open Open 24 hours · park drive one-way for cars · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

12:30–13:30 · Free

English Bay Beach

Quick beach stop before you leave.

Open Always open · swimming in summer · Source
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,330
3

14:00–14:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Pick up lunch for the road. Check branch hours.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 6 min · ≈ CAD 1,325

2 nights · Culture ★ Recommended length

Visitors who want museums, Indigenous art and historic streets.

Stay: Downtown. Central for SkyTrain, shops and the seawall; walk to most sights.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,871
Hotel: CAD 400–900

Day 1

Arrive, Gastown and Canada Place

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,703

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1342 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–14:00 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Shops open daytime. Streets get lively in the evening.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

14:15–14:35 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 622 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

15:00–15:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade and harbour views. Check hours on the day.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,330
4

18:00–18:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy dinner. Branch hours vary, check on the day.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 9 min · ≈ CAD 1,328

Day 2

UBC museums and campus

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 107

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 13 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ CAD 37
1

10:00–12:00 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 18–25 · check on the day

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Landmark quest

Closed Mondays in some seasons. Usually 10:00–17:00, check on the day.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons · usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

12:30–14:30 · Free to walk the campus · museums ticketed

University of British Columbia (UBC) Landmark quest

Campus walk and lunch. Buildings vary in hours.

Open Campus open daily · buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ CAD 36
3

15:30–16:30 · Free

Queen Elizabeth Park viewpoint

Clear late afternoon for the skyline.

Open Park open daily, usually dawn to dusk · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ CAD 19

Day 3

Aquarium or Science World, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 61

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

10:00–12:30 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 45–60 · check on the day

Vancouver Aquarium Landmark quest

Good on a rainy day. Usually 10:00–17:00, check on the day.

Open Daily, usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CAD 16
2

13:30–16:00 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 25–35 · check on the day

Science World Landmark quest

Indoor backup if weather turns. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

16:45–17:30 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Last look at the harbour before the airport.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 1264 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15

3 nights · Nature

First-timers who want the seawall, beaches and a mountain day, at an easy pace.

Stay: West End. Quiet streets next to Stanley Park and English Bay beaches.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,862
Hotel: CAD 480–1,050

Day 1

Arrive, Stanley Park and the seawall

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,689

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–16:00 · Free to enter · parking paid

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Start at the West End entrance. The park drive is one-way for cars.

Open Open 24 hours · park drive one-way for cars · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

16:30–17:30 · Free

English Bay Beach

Walk back along the water. Sunset is the best time in summer.

Open Always open · swimming in summer · Source
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,330
3

18:00–18:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy takeaway pizza for an early night. Check your nearest branch.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 11 min · ≈ CAD 1,329

Day 2

Bike the seawall, then False Creek

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 75

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 652 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

09:00–11:00 · Bike rental roughly CAD 15–30 per hour · check on the day

Seawall bike ride

Rent a bike near the West End. Go early on a dry day.

Open Rentals daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

11:30–12:00 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Small ferries hop across False Creek. Daytime service only.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 380 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

12:15–13:15 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–15

Granville Island Public Market

Lunch from the stalls. Usually 09:00–18:00, check on the day.

Open Usually 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

14:00–16:30 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 25–35 · check on the day

Science World Landmark quest

Good backup if it rains. Usually 10:00–17:00.

Open Daily, usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CAD 15

Day 3

North Shore mountains, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 98

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CAD 25
1

09:00–11:30 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 60–75 · check on the day

Capilano Suspension Bridge Landmark quest

Go first thing to beat the crowds. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, usually 09:00–17:00 or later in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ CAD 20
2

12:30–15:30 · Gondola ticket roughly CAD 60–80 · check on the day

Grouse Mountain gondola

Gondola up for views. Hours vary by season, check on the day.

Open Daily, hours vary by season · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 14 km · ≈ 42 min · ≈ CAD 38
3

17:00–17:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade walk before you head to the airport.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

3 nights · Food

Visitors who plan the day around markets, snacks and a good dinner.

Stay: Yaletown. Lively restaurants and bars by the water; easy Canada Line access.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 5,423
Hotel: CAD 660–1,440

Day 1

Arrive, Granville Island

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,679

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1333 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:00–15:30 · Free to enter · pay per item at the market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Market, shops and food stalls. Weekday afternoons are calmer.

Open Public Market roughly 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 413 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

16:00–16:30 · Small hop fare roughly CAD 4–6 · check on the day

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Ride across False Creek for the view.

Open Daytime service · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 528 km · ≈ 24 h 4 min · ≈ CAD 1,323
3

18:30–19:00 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy meal in. Check branch hours.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 6 min · ≈ CAD 1,325

Day 2

Gastown and Chinatown eats

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 75

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

10:30–10:50 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

It whistles on the quarter hour.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

11:00–12:00 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Shops are daytime; streets get lively later.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 789 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

12:15–13:45 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–20

Chinatown food walk

Lunchtime food walk. Most shops 10:00–18:00.

Open Daytime, most shops 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
4

15:00–15:45 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Walk down to the waterfront to finish.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CAD 15

Day 3

Market morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,669

Taxi from your hotel · 1410 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

09:30–10:30 · Pay per item · snacks roughly CAD 5–15

Granville Island Public Market

Breakfast from the stalls. Go early on a weekday.

Open Usually 09:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CAD 16
2

11:00–12:00 · Free

Queen Elizabeth Park viewpoint

City and mountain views on a clear day.

Open Park open daily, usually dawn to dusk · Source
Taxi · 524 km · ≈ 23 h 53 min · ≈ CAD 1,313
3

12:30–13:00 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Quick lunch before the airport.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 529 km · ≈ 24 h 6 min · ≈ CAD 1,325

3 nights · Culture

First-timers who want museums, Indigenous art and old neighbourhoods.

Stay: Downtown. Central for SkyTrain, shops and the seawall; walk to most sights.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CAD 0
Taxis: ≈ CAD 2,869
Hotel: CAD 600–1,350

Day 1

Arrive, Gastown and the waterfront

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 2,701

Taxi from your hotel · 1264 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

13:30–14:15 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Promenade and harbour views. Check hours on the day.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 622 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

14:45–15:05 · Free

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Short walk from the waterfront.

Open Always visible · whistles on the quarter hour
Taxi · 467 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

15:15–16:15 · Free · self-guided

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Late afternoon into evening is best.

Open Always open · shops daytime
Taxi · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 9 min · ≈ CAD 1,328
4

18:00–18:30 · Take-and-bake pizza roughly CAD 12–25 · check on the day

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Easy dinner in. Check branch hours.

Open Varies by branch · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 530 km · ≈ 24 h 9 min · ≈ CAD 1,328

Day 2

Museum of Anthropology and UBC

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 109

Taxi from your hotel · 12 km · ≈ 38 min · ≈ CAD 35
1

09:30–11:30 · Free to walk the campus · museums ticketed

University of British Columbia (UBC) Landmark quest

Campus walk. Weekday mornings are quiet.

Open Campus open daily · buildings vary · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

11:45–13:45 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 18–25 · check on the day

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Landmark quest

Indigenous art and totem poles. Closed some Mondays, check on the day.

Open Closed Mondays in some seasons · usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 14 km · ≈ 44 min · ≈ CAD 40
3

15:00–16:00 · Free

Queen Elizabeth Park viewpoint

Stop on the way back downtown.

Open Park open daily, usually dawn to dusk · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ CAD 19

Day 3

Aquarium or Science World, then fly

Tickets ≈ CAD 0 pp · taxis ≈ CAD 60

Taxi from your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CAD 15
1

10:00–12:30 · Adult ticket roughly CAD 45–60 · check on the day

Vancouver Aquarium Landmark quest

In Stanley Park. Usually 10:00–17:00, check on the day.

Open Daily, usually 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1026 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15
2

12:45–13:45 · Free to enter · parking paid

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Short loop before you leave.

Open Open 24 hours · park drive one-way for cars · Source
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CAD 15
3

14:30–15:15 · Free to walk the promenade · FlyOver Canada ticketed separately

Canada Place Landmark quest

Last look at the harbour.

Open Promenade open daily · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 1264 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ CAD 15

Swap in instead

Swap a city day for Capilano Suspension Bridge or Grouse Mountain; check prices and shuttle options on the day.
Take the SeaBus to North Vancouver for the Lonsdale Quay market and skyline views.
Rent a bike (Mobi) and ride more of the seawall toward Kitsilano and the beaches.

Getting around

SkyTrain Canada Line links YVR to downtown in about 25 minutes.
SkyTrain Expo and Millennium lines plus SeaBus ferries cover the region.
TransLink buses run frequent local routes; N10 runs overnight from the airport.
Taxis accept credit cards; Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver.
Driving is easy outside rush hour; downtown parking is costly.
Walking and bike share (Mobi) suit the compact downtown and seawall.

Where to stay

Downtown · ≈ CAD 200–450 a night
Central for SkyTrain, shops and the seawall; walk to most sights.
West End · ≈ CAD 160–350 a night
Quiet streets next to Stanley Park and English Bay beaches.
Yaletown · ≈ CAD 220–480 a night
Lively restaurants and bars by the water; easy Canada Line access.
Gastown · ≈ CAD 180–400 a night
Historic brick streets, cafés and nightlife; close to Waterfront station.

Food & drink

Try Pacific salmon and spot prawns in season; ask what is local that day.
Granville Island Public Market: graze cheese, bread and fruit, then sit by the water.
Richmond has excellent Chinese food; the Canada Line gets you there in about 25 minutes.
Cheap eats: sushi, ramen and food trucks downtown, roughly CAD 10–20 a meal.
Book popular dinner spots ahead; weekend brunch queues are long.

Tips

Rent a bike and ride the Stanley Park Seawall, a stunning uninterrupted path around the peninsula
Carry a high-quality rain jacket and waterproof shoes; umbrellas are often useless in the wind
The sushi scene is widely considered some of the best and most affordable outside of Japan
Compass Card or a contactless credit card can be tapped to use all public transit
Downtown Eastside (DTES) struggles with severe visible poverty and drug use; tourists are often advised to bypass certain blocks

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Cross the famous suspension bridge
Explore the forested canyon trails
2,923 reviews · 4.8 rating

Entry includedFlexible timing

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (2,923)

$56View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridge plus city sights
Good overview for first-time visitors
851 reviews · 4.7 rating

City highlightsEntry included

Capilano Suspension Bridge & City Highlights Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (851)

$129View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Gastown Steam Clock

Food and history in Gastown
See the steam clock and old streets
666 reviews · 4.8 rating

10 tastingsGuided walk

Gastown Food & History Walk with 10 Tastings

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (666)

$96View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Grouse Mountain

Bridge and mountain in one day
Skyride views over the city
539 reviews · 4.8 rating

Two iconsEntry included

Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (539)

$188View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Stanley Park

Capilano Bridge plus Stanley Park
City sights along the way
75 reviews · 4.7 rating

City tourPark visit

City Tour with Capilano Bridge and Stanley Park

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (75)

$138View tour

Souvenirs

Northwest Coast Art Kitchen Towel

CAD 15–301–2 pieces · estimate

A kitchen towel printed with designs in the Northwest Coast Indigenous art style, which is closely tied to Vancouver's region and its First Nations artists. The Bill Reid Gallery is dedicated to this art, so the towel fits the city well.

Where: Bill Reid Gallery shop or craft shops on Granville Island

Choose items with the artist's name and a license printed on them. Check the country of manufacture before you buy, since it is not always listed.

Flights

Hotels

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Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

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Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 27

Must-see · 8

Stanley Park

Granville Island

Canada Place

Gastown Steam Clock

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Grouse Mountain

Vancouver Aquarium

Lions Gate Bridge

Cultural

Modern Architecture 2

Bridge 3

Old Town 1

Garden 2

Urban Hub 1

Museum 5

Park 3

University 1

Skyscraper 1

Natural

Beach 2

River 1

Mountain 1

Activities

Amusement Park 2

Cruise Tour 1

Aquarium 1

Day trips from Vancouver

Squamish · 1 h 00 by bus

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Seawall bike ride

Stanley Park Landmark quest

English Bay Beach

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Granville Island Public Market

Granville Island Landmark quest

Chinatown food walk

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Landmark quest

University of British Columbia (UBC) Landmark quest

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Seawall bike ride

English Bay Beach

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Grouse Mountain gondola

Canada Place Landmark quest

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Granville Island Public Market

Granville Island Landmark quest

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Chinatown food walk

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Canada Place Landmark quest

University of British Columbia (UBC) Landmark quest

Museum of Anthropology at UBC Landmark quest

Papa Murphy's Landmark quest

Gastown neighbourhood walk

Gastown Steam Clock Landmark quest

Canada Place Landmark quest

Science World Landmark quest

Stanley Park Landmark quest

Seawall bike ride

English Bay Beach

Granville Island Landmark quest

False Creek Ferry Landmark quest

Queen Elizabeth Park viewpoint