Canada, Destination Guides

Vancouver, BC Travel Guide

Sunset over the Burrard Street Bridge in Vancouver BC
Sunset over the Burrard Street Bridge in Vancouver BC

1. Introduction: Welcome to Vancouver!

Get ready for a city that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver offers a unique vibe you won’t find just anywhere. It’s a place where you can hike a mountain trail in the morning, kayak in the ocean in the afternoon, and enjoy world-class dining and theatre in the evening. The city pulses with a vibrant, multicultural energy, deeply influenced by its Pacific Rim location and significant Asian communities, alongside the foundational history and continuing presence of the Coast Salish peoples (the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations) on whose unceded traditional territories the city stands.

Vancouver is known for its laid-back West Coast attitude, its commitment to green living (hello, bike lanes and gorgeous parks!), and its incredible food scene – especially seafood and Asian cuisine. While it’s a relatively young city by global standards, its history is rich, from its Indigenous roots to its boomtown days during the gold rush and its evolution into a major port and international hub. Recent years have seen continued growth, particularly in tech and film (earning it the nickname “Hollywood North”), adding another layer to its dynamic character. Prepare for stunning views, friendly locals, and a constant temptation to stay outdoors!

2. Getting There: Your Arrival Plan

By Air:

  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR): This is the main gateway, consistently ranked among North America’s best airports. It’s located south of the city in Richmond.
  • Airlines: Served by major international and domestic carriers like Air Canada, WestJet, United, Delta, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and many more.
  • Airport to City Centre:
    • Canada Line SkyTrain: The quickest and often cheapest way. Takes about 25-30 minutes to reach downtown Vancouver stations. Follow the signs for “Trains to City Centre.”
    • Taxis: Readily available outside arrivals. Expect fares around $35-$45 CAD to downtown, plus tip. Flat rates apply to specific zones.
    • Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Designated pick-up zones are available. Fares vary with demand but are often competitive with taxis.
    • Airport Shuttles: Some hotels offer shuttle services; check in advance.

By Train:

Amtrak Cascades: Offers scenic train service connecting Vancouver with Seattle, Portland, and other points south. Arrives at Pacific Central Station, just east of downtown.

By Bus:

Long-distance bus services (like Ebus or Rider Express, check current operators) connect Vancouver with other cities in BC, Alberta, and Washington State. Also arrives at Pacific Central Station.

By Ferry:

BC Ferries: Connects Metro Vancouver (terminals at Tsawwassen, south of the city, and Horseshoe Bay, west of the city) with Vancouver Island (Victoria, Nanaimo) and the Sunshine Coast. A beautiful way to travel if coming from the islands.

Visa & Border Tips:

  • International Visitors: Many nationalities require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. US citizens need a valid passport. Check the official Government of Canada website for specific requirements for your nationality well in advance.
  • From the USA: If driving, expect potential waits at land border crossings (Peace Arch, Pacific Highway are common ones). Have passports and any necessary documentation ready. Be aware of customs regulations regarding goods you can bring in.

3. Getting Around: Navigating Vancouver

Vancouver is quite easy to navigate, especially the downtown core.

Public Transit (TransLink):

This integrated system is excellent.

  • SkyTrain: Three automated rapid transit lines (Expo, Millennium, Canada Line) connecting downtown with suburbs, Richmond, and the airport. Fast and efficient.
  • Buses: Extensive network covering almost everywhere else. Frequent service on major routes.
  • SeaBus: A passenger-only ferry connecting Waterfront Station (downtown) with Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. Offers great city views!
  • Fares: Use a Compass Card (reloadable stored-value card available at stations and many drug stores) or simply Tap-to-Pay with your contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet directly at the fare gates/bus readers. Fares are zone-based, but buses are a flat one-zone fare. Transfers are valid for 90 minutes across all modes (SkyTrain, SeaBus, Bus).

Walking:

Downtown Vancouver, Gastown, Yaletown, and the West End are very walkable. The Seawall path around Stanley Park and False Creek is a world-class pedestrian route.

Cycling:

Vancouver is increasingly bike-friendly with many dedicated bike lanes.

  • Mobi by Shaw Go: Public bike share system with stations throughout the central areas. Great for short trips.
  • Rentals: Numerous shops rent bikes, especially near Stanley Park and False Creek.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing:

Taxis are plentiful, especially downtown and at hotels. Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city.

4. Where to Stay: Finding Your Base Camp

Choose your neighbourhood based on your style and budget:

Downtown:

The heart of the action. Close to shopping (Robson Street), attractions, restaurants, and the business district. Wide range of hotels from luxury (Fairmont Pacific Rim, Shangri-La) to mid-range (Sandman, Holiday Inn) and some budget options/hostels. Best for convenience and first-timers.

West End:

Borders Stanley Park and English Bay. More residential feel, leafy streets, diverse mix of restaurants and shops (especially on Denman and Davie Streets). Good range of hotels and older apartment rentals. Best for access to nature and a neighbourhood vibe.

Gastown:

Historic heart with cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, trendy boutiques, galleries, bars, and restaurants. Can be lively (and sometimes noisy) at night. Boutique hotels (Victorian Hotel, Skwachàys Lodge) and some hostels. Best for history buffs and nightlife lovers.

Yaletown:

Chic, formerly industrial area with converted warehouses housing upscale restaurants, bars, boutiques, and modern condos. Close to the Seawall and False Creek. Mostly high-end and boutique hotels (Opus Hotel). Best for trendy dining and a polished urban feel.

Kitsilano (“Kits”):

West of downtown, known for its beaches (Kits Beach), yoga studios, organic cafes, and relaxed vibe. Fewer hotels, more B&Bs and vacation rentals. A bit further out but well-connected by bus. Best for a beachy, laid-back stay.

North Vancouver:

Across the harbour via SeaBus or bridges. Closer to mountains (Grouse, Seymour, Cypress) and hiking/biking trails. Offers stunning city views. Hotels near Lonsdale Quay (Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier) provide easy access back downtown. Best for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Accommodation Types: Vancouver offers everything from luxury hotels and charming B&Bs to budget-friendly hostels (Samesun, HI Vancouver) and abundant Airbnb/VRBO options.
  • Safety Note: While generally safe, research specific locations within neighbourhoods. Read recent reviews, especially for rentals. The Downtown Eastside (east of Gastown) faces significant social challenges including homelessness and open drug use; while it holds historical significance, it’s generally advised for visitors to be cautious or avoid walking through, especially at night.

5. Must-See Attractions: The Iconic Checklist

You could spend weeks exploring, but here are the absolute highlights:

Stanley Park:

A magnificent 1,000-acre urban rainforest. Walk, bike, or rollerblade the Seawall (approx. 9km loop) for stunning ocean and mountain views. Visit the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, relax at Third Beach or Second Beach, and explore forest trails. Consider the Vancouver Aquarium located within the park. Allow at least half a day. Free entry to park; Aquarium requires tickets.

Granville Island Market:

A bustling public market brimming with fresh local produce, gourmet foods, seafood, artisan crafts, and street performers. Grab lunch from a food stall, browse the unique shops, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Best visited in the morning/early afternoon. Accessible by Aquabus/False Creek Ferries, bus, or walking.

Gastown:

Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Wander the cobblestone streets, admire Victorian architecture, check out the famous Steam Clock (whistles on the quarter-hour), browse independent boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant restaurant/bar scene. Great for walking tours.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park:

Thrilling (and popular!) attraction in North Vancouver featuring the namesake suspension bridge swaying high above the Capilano River, plus Treetops Adventure (walkways through the forest canopy) and Cliffwalk (a cantilevered walkway along a granite cliff). Tickets required (can be pricey); book online. Accessible by free shuttle from downtown or public transit. Alternative: Lynn Canyon Park (also in North Vancouver) offers a free suspension bridge and lovely trails, though often crowded too.

Grouse Mountain (“The Peak of Vancouver”):

Take the scenic Skyride gondola up for panoramic city views. In summer, enjoy hiking (including the challenging Grouse Grind – check if open!), lumberjack shows, and wildlife refuges. In winter, it transforms into a ski/snowboard hill with snowshoeing and skating. Gondola tickets required. Check website for seasonal activities.

Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC:

Located on the stunning University of British Columbia campus, this museum houses world-class collections, particularly renowned for its Northwest Coast First Nations art and artifacts, including magnificent totem poles in the Great Hall. Tickets required. Allow several hours.

Vancouver Art Gallery:

Housed in a former courthouse downtown, it features a strong collection of British Columbian artists (especially Emily Carr) alongside national and international exhibitions. Tickets required.

Lesser-Known Gems:

  • Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: tranquil oasis in Chinatown.
  • Queen Elizabeth Park: beautiful gardens and city views from Little Mountain.
  • Olympic Village area: modern architecture, Seawall access, craft breweries.

6. Activities & Experiences: Dive Deeper

Beyond the main sights, immerse yourself in Vancouver life:

Outdoor Adventures:

  • Hiking: Trails abound! From easy walks in Pacific Spirit Regional Park to challenging climbs on the North Shore mountains (St. Mark’s Summit, Quarry Rock in Deep Cove).
  • Water Sports: Kayak or paddleboard in False Creek, Deep Cove, or Jericho Beach. Take a whale watching tour (seasonal, typically May-October).
  • Beaches: Relax or play volleyball at Kits Beach, watch the sunset at English Bay, or find quieter spots like Spanish Banks.

Cultural Fix:

  • Explore Neighbourhoods: Wander Commercial Drive (“The Drive”) for its bohemian vibe and Italian roots, or Main Street for quirky shops and hipster cafes. Explore Punjabi Market (South Vancouver) or historic Chinatown.
  • Festivals: Vancouver hosts numerous events. Check schedules for the International Jazz Festival (June/July), Folk Music Festival (July), Celebration of Light fireworks competition (July/August), Fringe Festival (September), and many more.
  • Indigenous Culture: Look for galleries showcasing First Nations art (Gastown, Granville Island), visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (in Whistler, a day trip), or check for specific cultural events.

Entertainment & Shopping:

  • Nightlife: Granville Street downtown is the main clubbing strip. Gastown and Yaletown offer more sophisticated bars and lounges. Craft beer lovers will find breweries scattered throughout Mount Pleasant and East Vancouver.
  • Shopping: Robson Street for high-street brands, Gastown for boutiques, South Granville for art galleries and upscale shops, Metropolis at Metrotown (in Burnaby, accessible by SkyTrain) for a huge mall experience.

Seasonal Fun:

Cherry blossoms blanket the city in spring (April). Summer brings outdoor movies and festivals. Fall offers beautiful colours. Winter means skiing/snowboarding on nearby mountains and festive markets.

7. Dining & Cuisine: A Foodie Paradise

Vancouver’s food scene is a major draw, reflecting its multicultural makeup and coastal location.

Must-Try Local Flavours:

  • Wild BC Salmon: Grilled, smoked (lox or candied salmon), in sushi – it’s a staple.
  • Sushi & Japanese Cuisine: Excellent quality and value, from high-end omakase to casual neighbourhood spots. Also try Izakayas (Japanese pubs).
  • Pacific Northwest Cuisine: Focuses on fresh, local, seasonal ingredients – seafood, berries, mushrooms, game.
  • Asian Cuisine: Especially Chinese (authentic Cantonese in Richmond) and Vietnamese (pho!). Diverse options city-wide.
  • Japadog: A unique Vancouver street food – Japanese-style hot dogs with toppings like seaweed, teriyaki sauce, and bonito flakes.
  • Nanaimo Bars: A classic Canadian no-bake dessert bar with layers of crumb base, custard filling, and chocolate ganache. Find them in cafes and bakeries.
  • Craft Beer: Huge scene! Explore breweries in Mount Pleasant (“Yeast Van”) or Olympic Village.

Where to Eat:

  • Granville Island Market: Casual eats, food stalls, fresh ingredients.
  • Richmond: The go-to destination for authentic Chinese food (especially Dim Sum).
  • Gastown & Yaletown: Trendier, often pricier restaurants and bars.
  • Commercial Drive: Italian, Latin American, vegetarian/vegan options galore.
  • Main Street: Diverse, hip cafes, brunch spots, and restaurants.
  • West End (Denman/Davie): Wide range of cuisines and price points.

Dietary Options:

Vancouver is very accommodating for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Most restaurants clearly label menus or can easily adapt dishes.

Dining Customs:

Tipping is standard practice in restaurants with table service: 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for good service. Tipping is usually expected at cafes if you receive table service or custom drink preparation. No need to tip at fast-food counters unless you feel service was exceptional.

8. Safety Tips & Local Customs: Know Before You Go

Vancouver is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it pays to be aware.

Safety:

  • Petty Theft: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Granville Island, Gastown, and on public transit. Don’t leave valuables visible in cars.
  • Downtown Eastside (DTES): This area faces significant challenges with poverty, homelessness, and addiction. While not inherently dangerous to pass through during the day, visitors might feel uncomfortable. It’s generally advisable to avoid walking through late at night, particularly alone. Stick to main routes if you need to transit the area.
  • Panhandling: You may encounter people asking for money, particularly downtown. A polite “Sorry, not today” is usually sufficient if you don’t wish to give.
  • Hiking Safety: If heading into the mountains, even for short hikes, be prepared. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts, tell someone your plans, bring water, snacks, and appropriate footwear/clothing. Cell service can be spotty.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette:

  • Politeness: Canadians are generally polite. “Please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” are common.
  • Queueing: Lining up (queueing) for buses, services, etc., is expected.
  • Casual Dress: Vancouver is a pretty casual city. Unless dining at a very high-end restaurant or attending a specific event, casual wear is usually fine. Layers are always a good idea due to changeable weather.
  • Cannabis: Recreational cannabis is legal in Canada for adults 19+. Purchase only from licensed retailers. Smoking/vaping cannabis is generally restricted to where tobacco smoking is allowed (check local bylaws – often not permitted in parks, beaches, patios, near doorways). Do not drive under the influence.

Emergency:

Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.

Health:

Tap water is safe to drink. Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Walk-in clinics are available for non-urgent issues (expect a wait and fees if you’re not a Canadian resident with provincial coverage).

9. Practical Information: The Essentials

Currency:

Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted. American Express is accepted in many places, but not all. ATMs are readily available. Carrying some cash is useful for smaller purchases or markets.

Language:

English is the primary language. French is also an official language of Canada, but less commonly spoken day-to-day in Vancouver compared to Eastern Canada. Due to its multicultural population, you’ll hear many other languages, particularly Mandarin and Cantonese.

Climate:

Temperate rainforest climate.

  • Winters (Nov-Mar): Mild and wet. Snow is infrequent in the city itself but common on the mountains. Average temps 0-8°C (32-46°F). Bring waterproof gear!
  • Spring (Apr-May): Mild, showers become less frequent, flowers bloom (cherry blossoms!). Temps 10-18°C (50-64°F).
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Warmest and driest time. Often sunny and pleasant. Temps 18-25°C (64-77°F), occasionally warmer.
  • Fall (Sep-Oct): Mild, crisp air, beautiful foliage. Rainfall increases later in the season. Temps 10-18°C (50-64°F).

Best Time to Visit:

  • Summer (June-August): Best weather for outdoor activities, lots of festivals. Peak tourist season, so book accommodation and popular attractions in advance.
  • Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October): Shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices. Spring brings blossoms; fall brings colours. Still great for exploring.
  • Winter (November-March): Ideal for skiers/snowboarders hitting the local mountains. Cozy vibe, festive lights (Dec). Be prepared for rain in the city.

Useful Resources:

Have an absolutely fantastic time exploring Vancouver! It’s a city that easily captures hearts. Enjoy the views, the food, and the fresh Pacific air!

Best of Vancouver Video