Vancouver is a cosmopolitan city in British Columbia surrounded by awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Would you like to explore the 1000 acres of lush rainforest in Stanley Park? Perhaps you'd like to watch the city skyline light up before your eyes? Does the culture of Vancouver intrigue you? Explore the North shore and learn about the history of Canada's Indigenous Peoples. Or cruise from False Creek through English Bay to the shores of West Vancouver and get up close with wildlife. There is no shortage of activities in beautiful Vancouver.
Vancouver is widely considered one of the best places to live in the world. It is modern and sophisticated; diverse in culture, food and landscape, and surrounded by nature. Outdoor activities and restaurants are abundant and there are many markets to explore. The waterfront, situated along the river, has the world's longest uninterrupted waterfront path which is ideal for walking and cycling.
Stroll through Gastown and admire the vintage lampposts, see the famous Gastown Steam clock produce a puff of steam on the hour and dine at some of the best restaurants in Canada. Make your way to Robson street for the finest shopping and a little bit of retail pleasure or head to Chinatown for its buzzing food scene. Pop into the Asian bakeries for delicious bites, try some dim sum or cool off with a cocktail in one of the bars. Spend a few hours at Granville Island Market browsing the art, fresh produce and gourmet food. Be adventurous and try a maple rhubarb ice cream. Who knows, it may change your life.
With its generous bike paths and breathtaking landscapes, Vancouver is the perfect setting for exploring by bike. Go at your own pace and enjoy the lush scenery of Stanley Park and stunning views of the coast. Find hidden gems and absorb the breathtaking sights.
Opt for a late afternoon bike tour and travel through the Coal Harbour neighbourhood, passing the world-famous Vancouver Seawall. Witness a magnificent sunset over the water as you pass through English Bay and onto False Creek. At nightfall, head to the Granville Street Entertainment District, famous for its nightlife and neon signs on the Granville Strip.
Take a unique route to Capilano Suspension Bridge by travelling downtown and across the Lions Gate Bridge which is a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. This is the perfect photo opportunity. Head into North Vancouver and stop at the Capilano Salmon Hatchery to learn about one of BC’s most important species, the Pacific Salmon. Arrive at Capilano Suspension Bridge which is 137 metres long and 70 metres high and take your time exploring this spectacular wilderness area.
Hop on board a zodiac-style vessel to take in views of Vancouver’s harbourfront and the surrounding nature. This is the fastest and most exciting way to see the city from the sea. Cruise through False Creek into the incredible Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park, which is surrounded by mountains, islands and waterfalls. Explore Vancouver's incredible scenery, and rich history getting up close with seals, bald eagles and much more. You'll even get to feel the spray from the picturesque waterfalls while you cruise North America's most southern fjord.
Pack a picnic basket, hat and sunscreen for a day of fun at English Bay Beach. It's the perfect spot to soak up the sun, swim or play a bit of volleyball. Look out for the Rain or Shine ice cream truck and sample the best honey lavender ice cream in Vancouver. Stay long enough to watch the sunset over the water and the glowing sky change to deep red-orange hues.
In winter Grouse Mountain is a dream for snow enthusiasts. You can revel in skiing and snowboarding among many other activities and it is just a 15-minute ride from downtown Vancouver. In summer the Sky Ride Gondola takes you to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the city. You can hike, zip line and paraglide, or for a quirky experience, watch the lumberjack shows.
Vancouver is popular for a spring holiday because it's generally warmer thanks to its location on the West Coast. There are over 40 000 cherry blossom trees that line the streets of Vancouver. In spring the city erupts in a pretty riot of pink and white blooms which are a must-see. Spring also attracts whales to the shoreline in Vancouver making it the perfect destination for a whale-watching tour.
The months of March to May and September to November are considered 'shoulder season', meaning that there are generally fewer crowds of people, prices are lower, and the weather is mild. It's the ideal time to travel because you'll have the feeling that you have the national parks and open spaces all to yourself. And there is nothing quite like that.
You probably already have ideas for your holiday to the United States and Canada. Nature tours through the Rocky Mountains, spotting orcas near the San Juan Islands, or exploring the streets of San Francisco on the iconic cable car?
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