Vancouver Canada 7 Day Itinerary

Vancouver: A 7-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Vancouver, a vibrant city nestled between the ocean and the mountains! This itinerary offers a taste of the best Vancouver has to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its diverse cultural scene.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver
  • Mid-Range: The Douglas, The Burrard
  • Budget: HI Vancouver Central, Samesun Vancouver Backpackers

Transportation:

  • Public Transit (SkyTrain, Buses): Efficient and affordable. Purchase a Compass Card for easy travel.
  • Walking/Cycling: Vancouver is very walkable, especially downtown. Bike rentals are readily available.
  • Taxis/Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Expect mild temperatures year-round but pack layers as it can be unpredictable. Rain is common, so bring an umbrella!
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Tipping: 15-20% for good service is customary in restaurants and bars.

Day 1: Arrival & Gastown Charm

  • Arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Take the SkyTrain to your accommodation downtown.
  • Explore Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, with its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and steam clock.
  • Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood at The Flying Pig or try traditional Canadian fare at The Old Spaghetti Factory.

Day 2: Stanley Park & Granville Island

  • Morning: Rent bikes and cycle through scenic Stanley Park, stopping at Brockton Point Lighthouse and the totem poles.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Granville Island, a vibrant market with artisan shops, fresh produce, and street performers.
  • Dinner: Indulge in gourmet food stalls at Granville Island Market or dine at The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant for waterfront views.

Day 3: Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge

  • Take the gondola up Grouse Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Hike, go ziplining, or visit the resident grizzly bears.
  • In the afternoon, walk across the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge, surrounded by lush rainforest.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a casual meal at The Observatory on Grouse Mountain or head back downtown for diverse dining options.

Day 4: Museum Hopping & Chinatown

  • Morning: Explore Vancouver’s cultural side at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC, showcasing First Nations art and culture.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, with its bustling markets, traditional dim sum restaurants, and historic temples.
  • Dinner: Sample authentic Chinese cuisine at one of Chinatown’s many restaurants, like Phnom Penh Restaurant or Jade Dynasty.

Day 5: Day Trip to Whistler

  • Take a scenic bus ride to the world-renowned ski resort town of Whistler.
  • Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, hike in the alpine meadows, or take a gondola up for panoramic vistas.
  • Dinner: Dine at one of Whistler’s many restaurants, from casual pubs to fine dining establishments.

Day 6: Beach Day & Sunset Views

  • Relax on the sandy shores of Kitsilano Beach, enjoying volleyball, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun.
  • In the evening, head to English Bay for stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a casual beachfront meal at The Boathouse Restaurant or opt for fine dining at Cardero’s Restaurant.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for your departure.

Tips:

  • Purchase a CityPASS for discounts on popular attractions like Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Science World.
  • Check out free events and festivals happening during your visit.
  • Take advantage of Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene, from food trucks to fine dining restaurants.

Have an incredible time exploring Vancouver!