Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Currency
Canadian Dollar (C$)
Language
English
Timezone
PST (UTC-8)
Discover Vancouver
Vancouver is where the Pacific Ocean meets towering mountains, creating one of the most dramatically beautiful urban landscapes in the world. This West Coast gem offers the rare ability to ski in the morning and kayak in the afternoon, all while enjoying a cosmopolitan city with world-class dining, diverse neighborhoods, and a laid-back Pacific vibe. The glass towers of downtown reflect both the surrounding nature and the city's forward-thinking, sustainable approach to urban living.
Beyond its natural beauty, Vancouver is a cultural mosaic where Asian influences blend seamlessly with Indigenous heritage and modern Canadian multiculturalism. Neighborhoods like historic Gastown with its Victorian architecture, the vibrant Punjabi Market, and the bustling energy of Chinatown—North America's third largest—each offer distinct experiences. Whether you're hiking the Grouse Grind, exploring Stanley Park's seawall, or savoring what many consider the best Asian cuisine outside of Asia, Vancouver delivers an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience.
Why Visit Vancouver?
Unmatched Natural Beauty: Few cities can match Vancouver's setting—snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, the Pacific Ocean at your feet, and ancient rainforests within the city limits. Stanley Park alone offers 1,000 acres of urban wilderness.
World-Class Asian Cuisine: Vancouver's Asian food scene rivals Hong Kong and Tokyo. From authentic dim sum in Richmond to Japanese ramen on Robson Street, the diversity and quality of Asian cuisine here is unparalleled in North America.
Year-Round Outdoor Adventures: Ski Grouse Mountain or Whistler in winter, kayak False Creek in summer, or hike the North Shore trails any time. The city caters to outdoor enthusiasts of every level and interest.
Progressive & Sustainable Culture: Vancouver consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities. The city's commitment to green spaces, cycling infrastructure, and sustainability is evident everywhere you look.
Indigenous Culture & Art: Experience the rich heritage of the Coast Salish peoples through world-class totem poles in Stanley Park, the Museum of Anthropology at UBC, and growing Indigenous tourism experiences.
Gateway to Adventure: Use Vancouver as your base to explore Whistler, Vancouver Island and Victoria, the Gulf Islands, and the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway—some of Canada's most spectacular scenery.
Vancouver is Known For
Ready to explore Vancouver?
Vancouver Neighborhoods
Downtown & Coal Harbour
The gleaming urban core featuring luxury hotels, high-end shopping on Robson Street, and the stunning waterfront Coal Harbour. The starting point for Stanley Park and the seawall.
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Gastown
Vancouver's oldest neighborhood with cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, the iconic Steam Clock, and a concentration of trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
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Chinatown
North America's third-largest Chinatown featuring the serene Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, traditional apothecaries, and increasingly hip cafes and restaurants.
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Kitsilano (Kits)
A beachy, health-conscious neighborhood with a laid-back vibe. Features the popular Kitsilano Beach, organic cafes, yoga studios, and stunning views of downtown across English Bay.
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Granville Island
A vibrant arts and culture hub on a former industrial site. Home to the famous Public Market, artisan studios, theaters, and waterfront restaurants.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Get a Compass Card for transit—it works on buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus. Tap in and out to get the best fare.
- •The best sushi is often found in unassuming strip malls in Richmond and on the North Shore, not downtown.
- •Stanley Park's seawall is best enjoyed by bike. Rent one near the park entrance and ride the full 10km loop counterclockwise.
- •For the best mountain views, visit during October-November or March-April when clear skies reveal fresh snow on the peaks.
- •Skip the expensive gondola and hike the Grouse Grind for free—it's steep but rewarding. Take the gondola down for a discounted rate.
- •The SeaBus to North Vancouver is essentially a scenic harbor cruise included in your transit fare.
- •Vancouver's Asian food scene is concentrated in Richmond. Take the Canada Line and explore the Aberdeen Centre food court.
- •Many restaurants don't take reservations for small parties. Arrive early (before 6pm) or late (after 8:30pm) to avoid waits.
- •Third Beach in Stanley Park is less crowded than English Bay and offers stunning sunset views.
- •Tipping 15-20% is expected at restaurants. Sales tax is 12% (GST + PST) and not included in displayed prices.
Vancouver Food Scene
Vancouver's food scene punches well above its weight, driven by exceptional access to Pacific seafood, Asian immigration, and a farm-to-table culture. The city's sushi rivals Tokyo, the dim sum matches Hong Kong, and the local seafood—especially salmon—is world-class.
Must-Try Dishes
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Day Trips from Vancouver
Whistler
120km / 2 hours via Sea-to-Sky Highway
World-renowned ski resort in winter, mountain biking and hiking destination in summer. The drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is spectacular.
Victoria
Ferry + 100km / 3.5 hours total
BC's charming capital on Vancouver Island, featuring the Butchart Gardens, historic Inner Harbour, and British colonial architecture.
Bowen Island
20-minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay
A peaceful island getaway with hiking trails, artisan studios, and a quaint village—all accessible as a day trip.
Squamish
65km / 1 hour
The outdoor recreation capital of Canada. Home to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, world-class rock climbing, and the impressive Shannon Falls.
Vancouver Hidden Gems
Lynn Canyon Park
A free alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge with its own suspension bridge, swimming holes, and beautiful forest trails on the North Shore.
Lighthouse Park
Ancient old-growth forest with rocky shoreline views, hidden beaches, and the historic Point Atkinson Lighthouse. Far fewer tourists than Stanley Park.
Richmond Night Market
North America's largest night market (summer only) featuring hundreds of Asian street food vendors, performances, and a carnival atmosphere.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver's highest point with panoramic city and mountain views, beautiful quarry gardens, and the Bloedel Conservatory with tropical birds.
Deep Cove
A charming village at the end of Burrard Inlet, perfect for kayaking and the trailhead for the rewarding Quarry Rock hike.
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