Welcome to Vancouver, a vibrant city where the mountains meet the ocean, and nature seamlessly blends with urban life. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or lucky enough to live here, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. From breathtaking outdoor adventures to the city’s rich cultural offerings, Vancouver has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into some must-do experiences, written with a mix of personal recommendations and insider tips.
1. Start Your Day with a Coffee and Stroll in Gastown
Gastown is one of Vancouver’s most iconic neighborhoods, full of cobblestone streets, heritage buildings, and quirky boutiques. Begin your morning with a cup of coffee from a local gem like Revolver or Nemesis. These coffee shops are known for their carefully crafted brews and cozy vibes.
While you’re sipping, don’t miss the Gastown Steam Clock. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also a quirky part of Vancouver’s charm. Bonus points if you visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Wander through the boutiques and art galleries lining Water Street, and pick up a unique souvenir or two.
2. Cycle or Walk Around Stanley Park
No trip to Vancouver is complete without exploring Stanley Park, the city’s crown jewel. This massive urban park offers over 1,000 acres of lush forest, gardens, and coastal views. Rent a bike from a nearby shop and cruise along the seawall, a 10-kilometer path that loops around the park.
You’ll pass landmarks like the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, the Girl in a Wetsuit statue, and breathtaking views of the Lions Gate Bridge. If cycling isn’t your thing, lace up your walking shoes and explore the network of trails that wind through the park’s dense forests. Don’t forget to stop at Beaver Lake or Lost Lagoon for a peaceful nature break.
3. Hit the Beaches
Vancouver might not scream “beach town,” but it boasts some amazing spots to soak up the sun. Kitsilano Beach (Kits Beach to locals) is a favorite, with its lively atmosphere and views of the mountains and city skyline. If you’re feeling adventurous, try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.
For something quieter, head to Spanish Banks. Located further west, these beaches are perfect for a relaxed picnic or a sunset stroll. And for the more daring, Wreck Beach near the University of British Columbia is Vancouver’s famous clothing-optional beach. The hike down the steep stairs is worth it for the serenity and stunning views.
4. Explore Granville Island
Granville Island is a food lover’s paradise, and it’s impossible to visit without feeling like you’ve hit the jackpot of culinary experiences. Start at the Public Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, artisan baked goods, seafood, and more. Grab a savory pie from A La Mode or a smoked salmon snack, and enjoy your meal by the water.
Beyond the market, Granville Island is also home to unique shops, galleries, and theaters. If you’re traveling with kids, the Kids Market is a whimsical spot packed with toys and games. Don’t leave without checking out the Granville Island Brewing Company, where you can sample local craft beers in a relaxed setting.
5. Take in the Views at Grouse Mountain
Nicknamed “The Peak of Vancouver,” Grouse Mountain is a year-round destination for breathtaking views and outdoor activities. In the winter, it’s a hub for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, tackle the Grouse Grind, a challenging hike often referred to as “Nature’s Stairmaster.” It’s not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment at the top is unbeatable.
If hiking isn’t your thing, take the Skyride gondola up to the summit. Once there, you can enjoy wildlife encounters (yes, they have grizzly bears in a sanctuary!), ziplining, or simply soaking in the panoramic views.
6. Indulge in the City’s Diverse Food Scene
Vancouver is a melting pot of cultures, and this is beautifully reflected in its food. If you’re a sushi lover, you’re in the right place. Hit up Tojo’s for high-end sushi or Toshi Sushi for a more casual, authentic vibe.
Craving something spicy? The city’s Asian food scene is unbeatable. Check out Phnom Penh in Chinatown for their famous buttery chicken wings, or visit Marutama Ramen for rich, creamy ramen bowls. And let’s not forget the food trucks! Grab a Japadog (Japanese-style hot dog) or something fresh from the Tacofino truck for a quick, delicious bite.
7. Dive into Culture in Chinatown
Speaking of Chinatown, it’s one of the largest and oldest in Canada, offering a rich mix of history, food, and culture. Stop by the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a serene oasis in the middle of the city. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather and learn about traditional Chinese landscaping and architecture.
The area is also full of incredible eateries and trendy shops. Don’t miss Bao Bei, a modern Chinese brasserie, or New Town Bakery for their legendary pork buns.
8. Discover Vancouver’s Neighborhoods
Each of Vancouver’s neighborhoods has its own vibe and charm, making it worth exploring beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
- Commercial Drive: Known as “The Drive,” this area is eclectic, artsy, and full of great cafes, restaurants, and vintage shops. Try La Grotta Del Formaggio for an epic sandwich.
- Mount Pleasant/Main Street: A hipster haven with cool breweries, indie shops, and creative murals. Check out Brassneck Brewery or 33 Acres Brewing for a pint.
- West End: Close to Stanley Park, this neighborhood is laid-back and welcoming. It’s the perfect spot to grab a casual meal or walk along Denman Street.
9. Take a Day Trip
Vancouver’s location makes it easy to take incredible day trips. Drive to Whistler, a world-famous ski resort, for outdoor adventures year-round. Or hop on a ferry to Vancouver Island and explore charming Victoria, with its historic buildings and beautiful gardens.
If you’re short on time, head to Deep Cove in North Vancouver. This little village feels like a world away from the city. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters, or hike the Quarry Rock Trail for stunning views of the inlet.
10. Catch the Sunset at English Bay
As the day winds down, there’s no better place to watch the sunset than English Bay. Pack a blanket, grab some snacks, and find a spot on the beach. It’s the perfect way to end a busy day in Vancouver.
During the summer, you might catch the Celebration of Light, an international fireworks competition that lights up the night sky. Trust me, it’s magical.
Best time to visit Vancouver
The best times to visit Vancouver are from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and hotel rooms can be found at bargain rates.
If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver, having the right apps on your phone can make your experience smoother, more enjoyable, and help you navigate like a local. Here’s a list of must-have apps for Vancouver visitors that will help you with transportation, dining, sightseeing, and more.
1. Transit Apps
Navigating Vancouver’s public transit system is easy with the right tools. These apps ensure you won’t get lost or waste time figuring out routes.
- TransLink: This is the official app for Vancouver’s public transit system. It provides real-time bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus schedules, plus trip planning features.
- Transit App: An alternative to TransLink, this app offers real-time transit data, bike-sharing locations, and step-by-step directions for getting around the city.
2. Ridesharing and Car Rentals
If public transit doesn’t fit your plans, these apps will help you get around quickly:
- Uber and Lyft: Both rideshare apps operate in Vancouver, offering convenient options for getting to your destination without the hassle of driving or parking.
- Evo Car Share: A popular car-sharing app in Vancouver, ideal if you want the freedom to drive yourself. You can pick up and drop off Evo cars anywhere within the home zone.
- Turo: This peer-to-peer car rental app is great for longer trips or day trips outside the city.
3. Navigation Apps
Vancouver has some unique geography, so a good navigation app is a must.
- Google Maps: A universal favorite for walking, driving, or public transit directions. It also includes details like business hours and reviews for nearby attractions.
- Citymapper: A helpful app for public transit navigation with user-friendly maps and step-by-step directions.
- Maps.me: Ideal for offline navigation, especially if you plan to explore areas like Grouse Mountain or Stanley Park where cell service might be spotty.
4. Food and Drink Apps
Vancouver is a foodie’s paradise, and these apps will help you find the best places to eat and drink.
- Yelp: Discover the top-rated restaurants, cafes, and bars based on reviews from locals and visitors alike.
- OpenTable: Perfect for making reservations at popular spots, especially in neighborhoods like Gastown or Yaletown.
- SkipTheDishes or DoorDash: Great for food delivery if you’re staying in and want to enjoy some of Vancouver’s amazing cuisine from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.
- Untappd: If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, this app will help you find local breweries like Granville Island Brewing or 33 Acres Brewing.
5. Outdoor Adventure Apps
Vancouver is known for its incredible outdoor activities. These apps will ensure you make the most of your time in nature.
- AllTrails: Your go-to guide for hiking trails in and around Vancouver. Popular hikes like the Grouse Grind, Quarry Rock, and Stanley Park trails are all listed with maps, reviews, and difficulty ratings.
- Tide Charts Near Me: If you’re exploring Vancouver’s beaches or planning water activities, this app provides essential tide and weather information.
- iNaturalist: Spot a plant or animal you don’t recognize while hiking. This app helps you identify it with input from a global community of nature enthusiasts.
6. Event and Activity Apps
Keep up with what’s happening in the city with these handy tools:
- Eventbrite: Find local events, festivals, concerts, and workshops happening during your stay.
- Vancouver’s Best Places: This app (or website) provides a curated list of the top attractions, activities, and events around the city.
- Meetup: If you’re traveling solo, this app can help you connect with locals and fellow travelers for group hikes, meetups, or cultural activities.
7. Weather and Climate Apps
Vancouver’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter or spring, when rain showers come and go. These apps will keep you prepared:
- The Weather Network: A reliable source for up-to-date weather forecasts, so you know when to pack an umbrella.
- Windy: Great for more detailed weather and wind conditions, especially if you’re planning water activities or a trip to the mountains.
8. Currency and Expense Apps
If you’re visiting from outside Canada, these apps will help you manage your finances:
- XE Currency Converter: A simple tool for converting currencies to ensure you know how much you’re spending.
- Splitwise: If you’re traveling with friends, this app makes it easy to split bills and expenses.
9. Language and Translation Apps
Vancouver is a multicultural city, and while English is the primary language, you might hear Chinese, Punjabi, or Tagalog depending on where you go.
- Google Translate: Essential if you encounter signs, menus, or conversations in languages you don’t understand.
10. Vancouver-Specific Tourism Apps
For the most personalized experience, download these apps tailored specifically to Vancouver:
- VanConnect: An all-in-one city app where you can access information about local services, report issues, or find city attractions.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: If you’re visiting this popular attraction, their app provides guides, maps, and fun facts about the park.
- Hop-On Hop-Off by Gray Line: This app complements the hop-on-hop-off bus tours in Vancouver, offering audio guides and route maps.
Final Thoughts
Vancouver is a city that truly has it all: stunning natural beauty, a vibrant food scene, and a laid-back yet cosmopolitan vibe. Whether you’re kayaking in the ocean, hiking in the mountains, or indulging in world-class cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do.
So, grab your camera, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible city. Vancouver’s waiting for you!
