Vancouver British Columbia 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Vancouver Itinerary: Mountains, City, & Ocean Bliss

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Samesun Backpackers (Downtown), HI Vancouver Central Hostel
  • Mid-Range: The Burrard Hotel, Opus Vancouver

Transportation:

  • Public Transit: Vancouver has an excellent public transportation system with SkyTrain, buses, and the SeaBus. Purchase a Compass Card for easy payment.
  • Walking: Downtown Vancouver is very walkable.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike to explore Stanley Park or Granville Island.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Vancouver experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Pack layers and be prepared for rain year-round.
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Tipping: 15-20% is customary in restaurants and bars.

Day 1: Downtown Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and take the SkyTrain to your accommodation downtown. Settle in and grab a coffee at Granville Island Coffee Co.
  • Afternoon: Explore Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood with cobblestone streets and Victorian architecture. Visit the Steam Clock and browse boutiques.
  • Evening: Dine at The Flying Pig for delicious pub fare and local craft beer.

Day 2: Stanley Park Serenity

  • Morning: Rent a bike and explore Stanley Park, a vast urban oasis with stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and city skyline. Cycle the seawall, visit Brockton Point Lighthouse, and wander through the rainforest trails.

  • Afternoon: Relax on English Bay beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Evening: Indulge in a seafood feast at The Sandbar overlooking False Creek.

Day 3: Granville Island Delights

  • Morning: Take the Aquabus or walk across the Granville Street Bridge to Granville Island Market. Sample fresh produce, artisan breads, and local delicacies.
  • Afternoon: Watch street performers, browse art galleries, and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy a casual meal at The Sandbar overlooking False Creek.

Day 4: Mountain Adventure

  • Morning: Take the Grouse Mountain SkyRide to the peak for panoramic views of Vancouver, the Lions Gate Bridge, and Howe Sound. Hike scenic trails or try ziplining and other adventure activities.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge and meet grizzly bears, wolves, and owls.

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the Museum of Anthropology at UBC to explore First Nations art and culture.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Chinatown, Vancouver’s oldest and largest Chinatown in Canada. Sample dim sum, browse traditional shops, and visit Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

Day 6: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Lynn Canyon Park

  • Morning: Walk across the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge high above a rainforest canyon. Explore other attractions like the Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk.
  • Afternoon: Hike through the lush trails of nearby Lynn Canyon Park, visit the suspension bridge (free), and enjoy a picnic by the waterfall.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your favourite cafe.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Bonus Activities:

  • Visit Science World for interactive exhibits and science demonstrations.
  • Catch a Canucks hockey game or a BC Lions football game.
  • Take a whale watching tour in the Salish Sea.
  • Explore the beautiful beaches of Kitsilano, Jericho, and Wreck Beach.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Vancouver Attractions Pass for discounted entry to multiple attractions.

  • Download the TransLink app for real-time transit information.

  • Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season.

Enjoy your adventure in vibrant Vancouver!