Why go to Vancouver
Vancouver is a city where you can kayak in the morning, eat superb Asian food at lunch and ski by night in winter, all framed by the North Shore Mountains.
Best time to visit Vancouver
May to September is dry, sunny and perfect for the outdoors. October to April is wet and mild, with skiing on local mountains from December. November is the rainiest month.
Top things to see
Stanley Park
Cycle the seawall around it.
Granville Island
Public market, artisans and harbour views.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
A swaying bridge over a canyon.
Grouse Mountain
Gondola, hiking and winter skiing.
Museum of Anthropology
Northwest Coast Indigenous art.
Gastown
Historic streets and the steam clock.
Things to do in Vancouver
- Kayak False Creek or Deep Cove
- Drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler
- Watch whales from Vancouver Island tours
- Hike the Grouse Grind
- Explore Richmond's night market in summer
Local experiences
- Eat sushi, which is excellent and good value here
- Dim sum in Richmond
- Swim at Kitsilano Beach
- Visit a craft brewery in Mount Pleasant
Where to eat in Vancouver
Dishes to try: sushi, wild salmon, dim sum, Nanaimo bars, spot prawns.
Granville Island Public MarketMarket
Local produce and seafood stalls.
MikuJapanese
Aburi (flame-seared) sushi on the waterfront.
Vij'sIndian
Influential modern Indian cooking.
Where to stay in Vancouver
Fairmont Pacific RimLuxury
Harbour views by the convention centre.
Wedgewood Hotel & SpaBoutique
Intimate luxury in downtown.
Skwachàys LodgeBoutique
Indigenous art hotel in Gastown.
Best areas to stay
Downtown
Central and walkable.
Yaletown
Restaurants and seawall access.
Kitsilano
Beaches and a relaxed vibe.
4 days in Vancouver
Day 1: Stanley Park and Gastown
Day 2: Granville Island and the beach
Day 3: The North Shore
Day 4: Sea-to-Sky
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Lunar New YearJanuary or February
Parade and celebrations in Chinatown.
Celebration of LightLate July to early August
International fireworks over English Bay.
Vancouver International Film FestivalLate September to October
Hundreds of films from around the world.
Getting around
SkyTrain, buses and SeaBus use contactless or a Compass card. The Canada Line runs from the airport to downtown in about 25 minutes. Bike lanes are excellent.
Practical information
- Plug types
- A, B (guide)
- Voltage
- 120 V
- Emergency
- 911
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
Tipping: 15–20% in restaurants. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Carry a rain jacket outside summer
- Tipping 15–20% is standard
- Book Whistler and ferry trips ahead in summer
- Bears live on local trails: follow posted advice
Vancouver travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Vancouver?
The best months are usually May–Sep. May to September is dry, sunny and perfect for the outdoors. October to April is wet and mild, with skiing on local mountains from December. November is the rainiest month.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
Plan on 3–4 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Vancouver?
The local currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Vancouver cost per day?
Roughly US$110 per person per day on a budget, US$250 mid-range and US$650 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Vancouver?
Local favourites include sushi, wild salmon, dim sum, Nanaimo bars, spot prawns.
What plug adapter do I need for Vancouver?
Vancouver uses plug type A, B at 120 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
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