Discover Vancouver
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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.

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Things to do in Vancouver

Be wowed by Whistler’s legendary mountains

The drive to Whistler from Vancouver is one of the most breathtaking in Canada, taking you along the Sea to Sky highway. But the fun really begins once you get to this mountainous region. Thanks to Whistler Blackcomb’s legendary terrain, towering mountains and crisp air, Whistler is one of the world’s most popular skiing destinations. But there’s so more to this area than fresh powder and an impressive après ski scene. Whistler is equally as beautiful in the summer months, with peaks to hike, creeks to swim in and bear tours to embark on. A trip to Whistler is a true Canadian wilderness experience, making it one of the top places to visit in Vancouver’s surrounding area.

Get lost in Stanley Park

As Vancouver’s very first park, this sprawling, green oasis covers more than 400 hectares of land and offers unrivaled panoramic views of Burrard and English Bay, Downtown Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. The city boasts the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, the 28km Seaside Greenway, which includes the Stanley Park Seawall – the perfect spot for a waterside stroll, cycle or jog. Within the park itself lie the Totems, a collection of poles carved in British Columbia, colourful gardens with roughly 4500 plant varieties, and the tranquil Lost Lagoon.

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.

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