Vancouver - Discovering Canada

Travelling to Vancouver

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vancouver, a pretty good destination in Canada (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Vancouver and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Vancouver, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Canada, here's everything to know about Vancouver for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vancouver

Vancouver is a coastal city located in the province of British Columbia in Canada. It is known for its scenic views of the mountains and ocean, as well as its diverse population and thriving arts and culture scene. Vancouver is home to many popular tourist attractions, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and the Vancouver Aquarium. The city is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking. Vancouver has a temperate climate, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers.

What to visit in Vancouver

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Vancouver and a little information about each one: 1. Stanley Park - This 1,000-acre park offers stunning views of the city and bay, and is home to many trails, beaches, and attractions such as the Vancouver Aquarium and the famous Totem Poles.
2. Granville Island - This indoor-outdoor market offers unique shopping and dining experiences, and is also home to several theaters and an extensive public market.
3. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park - This park features a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, as well as cliff walks, treetop adventures, and a variety of natural exhibits.
4. Grouse Mountain - This mountain offers year-round activities such as skiing and snowboarding, hiking, and an aerial tramway that provides stunning views of the city.
5. Vancouver Art Gallery - This museum is home to over 11,000 works of contemporary and historical art, including many pieces from Canadian artists.
6. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden - This garden is a traditional Chinese garden in the heart of Vancouver, featuring winding paths, intricate structures, and serene water features.
7. Gastown - This historic district is Vancouver's tourist center and is home to many shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
8. Museum of Anthropology - This museum features a vast collection of indigenous art and artifacts from First Nations communities throughout Canada.
There are many more attractions Vancouver has to offer, but these are some of the most popular ones.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Canada, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Vancouver.

When to go on holiday to Vancouver

The best time to visit Vancouver is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, this is also the peak season for tourism, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting Vancouver in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or fall (September to October), when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists. Winter (December to February) can also be a great time to visit if you enjoy skiing or other winter sports. Just be sure to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Vancouver

There are several ways to get to Vancouver, Canada. 1. By plane: Vancouver International Airport is the main airport serving the city and one of the busiest airports in Canada. It is well-connected to major cities and destinations around the world.
2. By train: The Rocky Mountaineer train service is a popular way to reach Vancouver from other cities in Canada, such as Calgary, Jasper, and Banff. The train journey offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and the Pacific Coast.
3. By bus: Greyhound Canada provides long-distance bus services to Vancouver from various cities across Canada and the United States.
4. By car: Vancouver is well connected to surrounding cities and destinations via highways and roads. It is a popular road trip destination, and renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding areas.
5. By ferry: If you are coming to Vancouver from Vancouver Island or other nearby islands, you can take a ferry operated by BC Ferries. The ferry journey is a scenic and enjoyable experience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vancouver, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vancouver

Here are a few typical foods of Vancouver with a short description for each of them: 1. Poutine - A popular Canadian dish with hot fries, cheese curds, and gravy on top.
2. Japadog - A unique and delicious hot dog served with Japanese-inspired toppings like seaweed, teriyaki sauce, and bonito flakes.
3. Wild BC Salmon - A must-try when visiting Vancouver, this fresh and flavorful fish is famous for its pink and tender flesh.
4. Nanaimo Bars - A dessert that originated in the city of Nanaimo, made with a crumbly chocolate crust, vanilla custard, and chocolate ganache on top.
5. Butter Tarts - This Canadian classic is a small pastry shell filled with a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.
6. Bannock - A popular Indigenous bread that is usually fried or baked, and can be served sweet or savory.
7. Montreal-style Bagels - A thinner and sweeter version of the traditional bagel, boiled in honey water and baked until crispy.
8. Sushi - With a large Japanese population in Vancouver, there are many sushi restaurants offering fresh and delicious sushi rolls and sashimi.
You can find general info about typical foods in Canada here.

Is Vancouver an expensive destination for tourists?

Vancouver can be an expensive destination for tourists, as it is one of the most expensive cities in Canada, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining. However, there are still ways to save money while enjoying all that Vancouver has to offer. One way to save money is to visit during the shoulder seasons, when accommodations are often cheaper and there are still plenty of things to see and do. Another way to save money is to explore Vancouver's many free attractions, such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the beaches. In terms of dining, there are many affordable options available, including local food trucks, ethnic restaurants, and casual cafes. It's also a good idea to research happy hour specials and daily food specials at restaurants.
Overall, Vancouver can be an expensive destination, but with some careful planning, it is possible to have a great trip without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Vancouver

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Vancouver would be downtown Vancouver, Yaletown, Coal Harbour, West End, Gastown, and Kitsilano. These areas offer easy access to popular tourist attractions, public transportation, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
You can check hotel prices at Vancouver here:
Booking.com

Is Vancouver a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vancouver is generally considered a very safe city for tourists. The crime rate in Vancouver is relatively low, and visitors can rest assured that they can explore the city without significant safety concerns. However, as with any city, it is always advisable to exercise common sense safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, carrying your valuables with you, and sticking to well-lit and well-traveled areas, especially at night. Additionally, it is always a good idea to stay up to date on current safety and security advisories in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Canada here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Vancouver.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vancouver the most?

Vancouver is a great destination for all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the vibrant nightlife in downtown Vancouver, the romantic scenery at Stanley Park and Coal Harbour, as well as the fantastic fine dining options available across the city. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the city's array of craft breweries, lively neighborhoods like Gastown and Granville Island, and outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and skiing.
Families will love the variety of family-friendly attractions, such as the Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The city also offers plenty of parks and beaches to keep children entertained.
In summary, Vancouver offers something for everyone and is a great destination for couples, young people looking for fun, and families.

How to get around Vancouver

Vancouver has a very efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the city or use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. For longer distances, you can use coach buses or take a taxi. If you prefer to drive, car rental companies are also available. Additionally, Vancouver has a network of pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways that make it a city that's easy to get around on foot.

What to see around Vancouver

Sure, here are some great options for day trips from Vancouver: 1. Whistler: This popular ski resort town is just a scenic 2-hour drive from Vancouver and offers plenty to do in any season, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding.
2. Victoria: You can take a ferry from Vancouver to Victoria on Vancouver Island and explore this charming city with its British colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and whale watching tours.
3. Squamish: Located between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish boasts stunning scenery and outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking.
4. Bowen Island: This small island in Howe Sound can be reached by a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. It's a great spot for hiking, kayaking, and exploring local galleries and boutiques.
5. Harrison Hot Springs: Located about 2 hours east of Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs is a small village known for its natural hot springs and scenic lake. It's the perfect place for a relaxing day trip.
6. Chilliwack: This city east of Vancouver is home to some of the best hikes and outdoor opportunities in the region, including Cascade Falls and Cultus Lake.
7. Steveston: This historic fishing village is located south of Vancouver in Richmond and is home to quaint shops, restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront. It's especially popular with movie buffs as it's been used as a filming location for many productions.
For every travel information about Canada you can click here.

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