Discover Vancouver
with Cathay Pacific

Set against a stunning backdrop of dramatic mountains and surrounded by tranquil rivers, lakes and fjords, Vancouver is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
But this city boasts more than great hikes and alfresco activities. It’s also the largest metropolitan area in western Canada, and thanks to its diverse immigrant population, is widely considered to be the country’s cultural and culinary capital. No matter what sort of holiday you’re looking for, tailor your itinerary with our guide of things to do in Vancouver. From sampling Asian street food at Richmond night market and shopping on Granville Island to day trips down to Deep Cove, the Sunshine Coast and Whistler, these are the best places to visit in Vancouver and the surrounding region.

Book & compare flights to Vancouver (YVR) with Cathay Pacific from AED7,225

Things to do in Vancouver

Travel back in time in Gastown

Dating back to 1867, Gastown is the city’s most historic neighbourhood and one of the top places to visit on your Vancouver holiday. This charming cobblestoned area makes for a lovely afternoon walk, with its antique lamppost-lined streets, old Victorian buildings, souvenir shops and boutique art galleries. Maybe the most famous landmark in this area is the whistling steam clock, one of the last remaining working steam clocks in the world, and you will also find some of Vancouver’s best restaurants and cafes in this area, so be sure to head to Gastown hungry for more than just history.

Explore Granville Island’s vibrant shopping district

Tucked away under the Granville Street Bridge is a peninsula known for its unique shopping and entertainment district: Granville Island. In the 1970s, this island was an industrial wasteland. Today, it’s Vancouver’s premier artistic and cultural hub. Its popular Public Market is home to more than 50 independent food stalls, selling everything from maple syrups to seafood. Aside from its status as one of the city’s top culinary destinations, the island also boasts its own brewery, Granville Island Brewing Co, and a fantastic Arts Club with a wide variety of shows to book.

Sample Richmond Night Market’s Asian delicacies in the summer months

From Friday to Sunday during the summer months, Richmond is home to the largest night market in North America. This ultimate food experience is one of the top things to do in Vancouver from May through to October, with over 70 food stalls and 100 retail vendors showcasing an impressive variety of cultures and cuisines. The market is reminiscent of the many night bazaars that can be found all over Asia, and boasts some of the best authentic Asian street food and snacks in Canada, such as Chinese dragon’s beard candy and grilled squid.

People who visited Vancouver also liked

Los Angeles
San Francisco
New York
Toronto
Chicago