Whistler - Discovering Canada

Travelling to Whistler

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Whistler, 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 Whistler 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 Whistler, 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 Whistler for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Whistler

Whistler is a popular resort town located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. It is a year-round destination and is particularly known for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. It has two main ski resorts, Whistler and Blackcomb, which combined make up the largest ski resort in North America. In the summer, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. The town itself offers a range of accommodation options, restaurants, bars, and shops. Whistler is easily accessible from Vancouver, which is located approximately 120 kilometers away.

What to visit in Whistler

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Whistler, Canada: 1. Whistler Blackcomb: This is one of the best ski resorts in North America, offering unparalleled skiing and snowboarding opportunities with over 8,000 skiable acres, 16 alpine bowls and three glaciers. The resort offers skiable terrain for all skill levels and is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
2. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola: This is an incredible engineering marvel which provides an unparalleled perspective of the Whistler landscape. The gondola spans 4.4 kilometers between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the longest unsupported span in the world. During the ride, which lasts approximately 11 minutes, you'll get stunning 360-degree views of glaciers, lakes, forests, and mountain peaks.
3. Lost Lake Park: This is a beautiful park located on the outskirts of Whistler village showcasing stunning vistas of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The park offers swimming, biking, and hiking, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. 4. Scandinave Spa: This is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to relax and unwind. This outdoor spa is surrounded by majestic spruce trees and natural rock formations and features hot and cold pools, Finnish saunas, steam rooms and outdoor fireplaces. 5. Whistler Olympic Plaza: This is an outdoor public space constructed for the 2010 Winter Olympics, featuring the Olympic rings and towering surrealist statues of athletes. This area is used for special events such as concerts, movie screenings, festivals, and other recreational activities.
6. Audain Art Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Northwest Coast Native art and works from both the historical and contemporary periods. The permanent collection includes more than 200 works of art, ranging from carvings, paintings and weavings to masks, baskets, and jewelry.
7. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park: The park features one of Whistler's highest waterfalls with a drop of over 70 meters. It's a scenic stop with a short hike, offering panoramic views of the Whistler valley.
These are just a few of the many wonderful tourist attractions in Whistler, Canada. No matter what you decide to do, you're sure to be inspired by the stunning beauty and outdoor activities on offer in this enchanting mountain town.
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 Whistler.

When to go on holiday to Whistler

The best time to go on holiday to Whistler often depends on what activities you are interested in. If you are looking for winter sports, the best time to go would be between December to March when there is heavy snowfall and skiing/ snowboarding conditions are optimal. The busiest time of the ski season is typically in February during school holidays.
However, if you are interested in hiking and mountain biking, the summer months of June to August offer warm and pleasant weather with long daylight hours. Overall, Whistler is a year-round destination with activities and events throughout each season.

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

How to get to Whistler

There are several ways to get to Whistler, Canada. The most popular ways include: 1. By Car: Whistler is approximately a 2-hour drive north of Vancouver via the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99). You can also rent a car from Vancouver or arrange for a private transfer.
2. By Bus: There are several coach services that run daily services from Vancouver to Whistler, including Greyhound, Pacific Coach Lines, and Epic Rides. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and departs from Vancouver's Pacific Central Station.
3. By Train: The Whistler Mountaineer train offers a scenic journey from Vancouver to Whistler, departing from North Vancouver Station. This journey takes approximately four hours and includes stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers.
4. By Air: Whistler also has its own small airport, which caters to private and charter flights. Alternately, you can fly into Vancouver International Airport and take a shuttle bus or hire a car to reach Whistler, which is around 135 km away from the airport.
Whatever your mode of transportation, once you arrive in Whistler, there are numerous activities and attractions to enjoy, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and sightseeing.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Whistler, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Whistler

Sure, here are some typical foods of Whistler, Canada: 1. Poutine - A classic Canadian dish made of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. In Whistler, you can find variations of this dish with toppings like pulled pork, chicken, or vegetables.
2. Salmon - Fresh Pacific salmon is a popular seafood dish in Whistler, usually served grilled or smoked with local herbs and spices.
3. Bison - Bison meat is a common ingredient in Whistler cuisine, with dishes like bison burgers, chili, and stews offered at many restaurants.
4. BC Wine - British Columbia's wine industry is flourishing, and Whistler is no exception. You can enjoy locally-produced wines at many restaurants and bars in the area.
5. Clam Chowder - This creamy, hearty soup is a popular dish in Whistler, made with fresh clams, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich broth.
6. Craft Beer - Whistler has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering a variety of brews for visitors to try.
7. Maple Syrup - Canada is famous for its maple syrup, and Whistler is no exception. You can find many local products made with this sweet, natural ingredient, including ice cream, candy, and pastries. 8. Nanaimo Bars - A dessert bar made up of a crumbly chocolate base, vanilla custard buttercream filling, topped with a layer of melted chocolate.
You can find general info about typical foods in Canada here.

Is Whistler an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Whistler can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak seasons such as winter skiing and summer vacations. However, the cost of accommodation, food, and activities can vary depending on your budget and preferences. It is recommended to research and plan ahead to find the best deals and budget-friendly options, such as booking in advance, choosing off-peak travel times, or opting for budget accommodations like hostels. Additionally, there are often free outdoor activities and events to participate in, such as hiking, biking, and festivals.

Where to find accomodation in Whistler

The best areas to find accommodation in Whistler, Canada are Whistler Village, Upper Village, and Creekside. Whistler Village is the most popular and offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping options. Upper Village is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and is quieter than Whistler Village but still offers easy access to the ski slopes. Creekside is located at the southern end of Whistler and is the original base area of the resort. It offers easy access to the Creekside Gondola and features a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere compared to Whistler Village.
You can check hotel prices at Whistler here:
Booking.com

Is Whistler a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Whistler, Canada is generally a very safe place for tourists. Violent crime is very rare and there is a strong police presence throughout the village. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to take certain precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, locking your car and room doors, and staying aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to take precautions while participating in outdoor activities such as skiing or hiking. Overall, Whistler is considered a very safe and welcoming place for tourists.
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 Whistler.

What type of travelers will enjoy Whistler the most?

Whistler, Canada, is a destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate the cozy, alpine village atmosphere and the many luxury accommodation options. They can enjoy a day on the slopes followed by a relaxing evening in a spa or intimate dinner in one of the many restaurants with a mountain view.
Young people looking for fun will also enjoy Whistler, as the resort is known for its vibrant nightlife and après-ski scene. There are plenty of bars and nightclubs to keep the party going once the skis are off.
Families will also find Whistler a great destination. The resort has a reputation for being family-friendly, with plenty of skiing and snowboarding runs suitable for all levels, as well as a range of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice-skating, and tobogganing.
Overall, Whistler is a destination that has something to offer for everyone, making it a truly versatile and enjoyable destination.

How to get around Whistler

In Whistler, you can use a variety of transportation options to move around: 1. Walking: Whistler Village is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance.
2. Bicycle: There are several bike rental shops in Whistler Village, and the Valley Trail provides a scenic way to travel around the resort. 3. Public Transit: Whistler has a public bus system that operates year-round and connects Whistler Village with other parts of the resort.
4. Shuttle Service: There are several private shuttle services available that provide transportation to and from the airport or to other nearby destinations.
5. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Whistler and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
6. Rental Car: Several car rental companies operate in Whistler, and a rental car provides flexibility to explore the surrounding area.

What to see around Whistler

Certainly! Some nice places to visit in a day trip from Whistler, Canada include: 1. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park: This park features an amazing waterfall and is just a 20-minute drive from Whistler.
2. Pemberton: Great for a day trip, Pemberton is an amazing spot for hiking and scenic drives, as it is surrounded by towering mountains.
3. Squamish: Only 45 minutes driving from Whistler, Squamish is a popular destination for outdoor activities and adventure sports such as rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking.
4. Garibaldi Provincial Park: Known for its stunning backcountry hikes, this park is just 30 minutes away from Whistler and offers jaw-dropping scenery.
5. Vancouver: A little further away but definitely worth it, Vancouver is only a two-hour drive from Whistler and has plenty of attractions such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the city's bustling downtown core.
I hope this helps!
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