Vancouver holidays

Pinched between snow-capped mountains and the Pacific, Canada’s bustling seaport is one of those rare places where you can take an ocean dip in the morning and hit the ski slopes that afternoon. Holidays to Vancouver reward the ambitious. From lush parks and wild beaches to Indigenous art and the best food scene in British Columbia, see why this city has what it takes to stretch your legs — and your imagination.

Vancouver holiday highlights

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Mountain exploration

In the winter, the snowy peaks of Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour turn into a magnet for skiers and snowboarders. Come the summer, you’ll find world-class hiking and mountain biking trails, like the Baden-Powell Trail and the Grouse Grind. Pack your binoculars to see a wide range of local wildlife, from owls to grizzly bears.

First-class food scene

With its global influences and ever-evolving restaurant scene, Vancouver is a dream come true for food lovers. The city’s coastal location makes seafood a key player on the menu, with delicacies like spot prawns and fresh crab. Eats to try on holidays to Vancouver include the ‘Japadog’ (a Japanese-inspired hot dog), BC rolls (signature sushi rolls) and Nanaimo bars (sweet treats made locally).

Hidden gardens

One of the greenest cities in North America, Vancouver has some fantastic gardens to explore. The 22-hectare VanDusen Botanical Garden is an oasis in the heart of the city, with over 7,500 plant species and an Elizabethan hedge maze, as well as a cafe and restaurant. Find your inner zen on holidays to Vancouver at the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese garden and tea house.

Join the global celebration

Vancouver’s glowing downtown stadium anchors the northern edge of False Creek, a short walk from seawall paths and sunset-facing patios. When the world’s biggest football tournament hits, expect the whole district to buzz, with music drifting across the water and crowds streaming towards the stadium. Arrive early to wander the waterfront or grab a bite in nearby Gastown.

Closest airport: Vancouver International Airport (12 kilometres)

Public transport: Take a SkyTrain to Stadium–Chinatown Station, then it’s a short walk.

Vancouver: Know before you go

Language

English

Currency

Canadian dollar ($)

Time zone

UTC-8 (PST) and UTC-7 (PDT)

High season

July – August

Low season

January – February

Find the best time to go to Vancouver

Weather in Vancouver

March – May: Spring’s mild temperatures bring cherry blossoms to Stanley Park and whales to Vancouver’s coastal waters.

June – August: Summers are on the mild side, with average daily highs hovering around 22°C. August’s clear skies and dry weather are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

September – November: The weather tends to stay clear and warm through September. But October marks the start of the rainy season. You may also see the first snowfall on nearby peaks.

December – February: Winters can be rainy and chilly, though temperatures rarely drop below freezing.It occasionally snows in the city, but the winter rains usually wash it away.

Events in Vancouver

Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival (March to April): Welcome the return of spring while celebrating all things Japanese at this arts and culture festival. Highlights include cherry blossom viewing and a haiku competition.

Honda Celebration of Light (July): One of Vancouver’s most beloved summer events, this long-running fireworks competition showcases dazzling displays from teams from around the world. Set out a picnic blanket around English Bay to watch the show.

Vancouver Writers Fest (October): This week-long tribute to the written word connects authors and readers from across Canada and beyond.Past attendees includeMargaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie and David Sedaris.

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The best neighbourhoods in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver

Downtown is the best neighbourhood to stay in Vancouver if you want to be centrally located. It’s close to all the action, including key transport hubs like the SkyTrain and bus services. You’re also near loads of restaurants and bars, not to mention Stanley Park, a massive oasis of beaches, rainforest and gardens.

Good for: Dining, gardens, beaches

West End

West End

This is the best area to stay in Vancouver if you want to feel like a local but still be near the main tourist attractions. You’ll have your fill of urban beaches and casual restaurants, plus a nice mix of independent hotels. The architecture runs the gamut from heritage homes to modern high-rises, and the neighbourhood is home to the city’s largest LGBTQ+ community.

Good for: Beaches, casual restaurants, LGBTQ

Yaletown

Yaletown

On the south side of Downtown, this is Vanouver’s chicest neighbourhood, home to some of the city’s top boutiques and restaurants. If you’re looking for a design-forward hotel where the concierge can snag you a dinner reservation with a single text, you’re in the right spot. Yaletown is also close to the city’s largest sports complex, as well as a waterfront park perfect for long Sunday strolls.

Good for: Boutiques, hotels, dining

Things to do in Vancouver

Gastown

Family friendly things to do

Families have a ball in Stanley Park with its miniature trains, outstanding aquarium and seemingly endless green space. Inquisitive young minds lock in at Science World and its hands-on exhibits and amazing live science shows. Fancy a day at the beach? In summer, head for the sandy shores of Kitsilano Beach, which has the largest saltwater pool in Canada.

Shopping

The CF Pacific Centre features all the outlets you’d expect at a mall, while Robson Street has global chain stores and local designers. For funky, independent labels, try your luck on Main Street. Head to historic Gastown to discover artisan crafts, chic home decor and unique souvenirs. And for foodie paradise, visit Granville Island’s Public Market for delicious treats, gourmet nibbles and handmade goods.

Take in the culture

The museums in Vancouver offer a fascinating insight into heritage, history and art. Visit the Museum of Anthropology at UBC to see the collection of First Nations artefacts and totem poles and learn about Indigenous heritage. Check out contemporary art at the Vancouver Art Gallery, or head to the Beaty Biodiversity Museum to engage with natural history.

Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife in Vancouver, you won’t be short of options. Step back in time at one of Vancouver’s speakeasies, like The Boxcar on Main Street or Guilt & Company in Gastown. Hello Goodbye is also great — if you can find it (it’s located behind an unmarked door at 1120 Hamilton Street). If high-energy nightclubs are more your style, there are plenty to enjoy in Downtown Vancouver.

Places to eat

With the wide range of restaurants in Vancouver, it’s no surprise this city has a reputation as an exciting foodie hub. Head to the laidback Gastown area for high-concept kitchens and a fusion of tasty foods. Enjoy a taste of Pacific Northwest cuisine and upscale dining at the Hawksworth Restaurant. For vegetarian and vegan delights, try award-winning restaurant The Acorn.

Free things to do

Explore the cobblestone streets of Gastown, the oldest area of Vancouver. Admire the architecture and take selfies at the famous Gastown Steam Clock, an unusual clock powered by steam. Go hiking in Lynn Canyon Park, and dare to cross its suspension bridge. For artistic-themed free things to do in Vancouver, find murals and art installations around the city.

Plan your holiday to Vancouver

Budget

Plan your cheap holiday to Vancouver with bargain sightseeing options in mind, like a walk along the city’s Seawall. Pick up a cheap snack at the Granville Island Public Market. Or sit down at an inexpensive restaurant for around 25 Canadian dollars ($). A cappuccino from one of Vancouver’s cute local coffee shops will cost you less than $6.

Day trips from Vancouver

A scenic drive north along the Howe Sound brings you to the charming town of Squamish. Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for breathtaking views of the mountains and Shannon Falls, or hike Garibaldi Provincial Park. For another fun day trip, hop on the ferry to Bowen Island. Here, you can hire kayaks, tour a craft cidery and relax on the beach.

Getting around Vancouver

Getting around Vancouver is easy thanks to its efficient public transport system. Use the SkyTrain or buses to navigate the city, or hop on the SeaBuses to travel across the harbour. Take the hassle out of getting tickets by buying a rechargeable Compass Card at any station to use on the Translink system.

FAQs about Vancouver holidays

The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the official currency. From tipping to shopping at local markets, having some cash readily available during your trip to Vancouver is a good idea.
The airline you prefer, where you leave from, and when you go all impact the cost of a city break in Vancouver. Prices for Vancouver flights and hotels can differ widely, but booking in advance and keeping your travel dates flexible can help you land savings.
English is what you'll hear the most while you're here. Learn some local words and phrases during your city break in Vancouver and you'll fit in perfectly.
December brings the coolest weather. Plan your Vancouver trip then and you can anticipate lows of -1ºC (30ºF).
If you're travelling some distance to get here, consider spending a week or two. This will give you the chance to mix sightseeing with some leisure time. For a quick trip to Vancouver from a neighboring town or city, three to five days will be enough to check out the top attractions.
August is the hottest month in Vancouver, with temperatures reaching highs of 24ºC (75ºF).
Vancouver is generally regarded as being a safe city for tourists. As with any other major location, be sure to protect yourself and your belongings. Take precautions in crowded areas, and avoid unfamiliar and unlit areas at night.
No matter how many times you visit, this city never fails to leave an impression. If seeing the sights is on your list of things to do in Vancouver, you'll want to include Stanley Park and Granville Island.
With an average rainfall of 40 cm, November is the wettest month to go on a Vancouver holiday. When the weather shifts, venture indoors and enjoy the city's shopping malls, art galleries, cafes and more.
For the best chance of good summer weather, plan your trip for July and August. If budget is an issue, you’re more likely to find cheap holidays to Vancouver between March to May and September to November.
Despite being affectionately known as ‘Raincouver’, Vancouver is actually one of the driest cities in Canada, especially between June and September. It’s true that it can rain heavily at other points in the year, so remember to pack a waterproof jacket.

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