Vancouver
Overview
Explore, shop, ski, surf – you can do it all in Vancouver, one of Canada’s largest urban centres and home to attractions perfect for vacationers and business travellers alike.
Known for its picturesque mountain-capped skylines and inner-city beaches, Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top cities to live in Canada and, for that matter, the world. It boasts a unique mix of big city attractions, world-class shopping (including exclusive boutiques and more than 470 stores at Metropolis at Metrotown) and vast cultural diversity few cities can match.
Vancouver is a mecca for the tasteful tourist who enjoys delicious, multicultural cuisine and unique cultural experiences. Sample the fare at Vancouver’s fusion-influenced restaurants, home to some of Canada’s top chefs, and take in the unique sights and sounds of historical Gastown and Chinatown. For a night out on the town, head over to Vancouver’s trendy West End or stroll down Denman Street for a great selection of evening entertainment options.
There’s also plenty of good family fun in Vancouver. Kids of all ages will love the many wonders at Science World and CN IMAX as well as the thrill of walking among sea life at Vancouver Aquarium.
To get around, you’ll love this city’s best-in-class transit system that’ll get you to and from attractions with ease. With many pedestrian- and bike-friendly pathways, you can also find plenty of ways to stay active and navigate the city by foot.
The year-round mild weather makes Vancouver an ideal place for any outdoor activity. Stroll along the beaches, follow the seawall to the world-famous Stanley Park or take the boardwalk to Granville Island Public Market where you’ll find delicious fare and unique gifts from local vendors.
Golf enthusiasts should check out at least a couple of the many golf courses sprinkled throughout the Lower Mainland. With scenic fairways set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and rugged West Coast Mountains, there are plenty of stunning views even non-golfers will enjoy.
If you’re after mountains and adventure, take a winter trip to Whistler Mountain. As one of Canada’s premiere ski destinations, Whistler features the greatest vertical-rise skiing in North America and the famed Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. Or, if you’re looking to put your feet up for a relaxing day of pampering in the lap of luxury, you’ll love the serene spas located right in the heart of Whistler Village.
Top off your trip with a view of the city from Canada’s highest suspension bridge, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, or from a gondola atop Grouse Mountain.
Whether you spend an entire week or just the weekend, you’ll find plenty of great ways to explore and relax in Vancouver.
Vancouver is a fantastic destination for:
- outdoor adventure
- culture and history
- shopping and dining
Airport served by: YVR
Destination basics
Climate
Located on Canada’s West Coast, Vancouver has some of the most moderate weather in Canada. The average annual temperature here is a mild 10 C. While it does occasionally fall below 0 C in the winter, the cold weather rarely lasts for long.
It’s no surprise that Vancouver is well known as a destination where a raincoat and umbrella are essential year-round. After all, there are on average 166 days of rain per year (with the majority of rain falling between November and March). But don’t let the rain turn you away. Vancouver also has a yearly average of nearly 300 days of sunshine!
Keep in mind that temperatures can vary between five and 10 degrees Celsius depending on where you are in the city in relation to the mountains and ocean. So, make sure you pack a light jacket or sweater and enjoy your stay.
What makes it different?
With its mountainous skyline, inner-city beaches, eclectic city culture and vibrant downtown core, Vancouver is unique in more ways than one. This is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds – an urban escape and a mountain retreat.
Head downtown for incredible Asian and European cuisine as well as the city’s hip nightlife scene. And don’t forget to check out the unique shops and high-end boutiques (think Louis Vuitton and Hermès) for incredible shopping (and window shopping).
Next, head to nearby Jericho Beach for sun, sand, beach volleyball and gorgeous views of both the mountains and Vancouver cityscape. This city has a wealth of great beaches, but this one is definitely one of the most unique in Canada.
From whale-watching tours on the Pacific Ocean (see pods of orcas up close!), to skiing, to golf, museums, fabulous restaurants, big city entertainment and more, you can see why Vancouver is frequently ranked as one of the top cities to live in the world. In fact, it’s this contrast of fast-paced city life with natural beauty that keeps Canadians and visitors from abroad coming back time and time again.
Points of interest in Vancouver
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Credit: Tourism BC
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Jeff Vinnick
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Dannielle Hayes
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Tourism BC and Kevin Arnold
Credit: Tourism BC and Dannielle Hayes
Credit: Tourism BC and Tom Ryan
Credit: Vancouver Art Gallery
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