Curator’s statement
Vancouver is a vibrant urban city with stunning waterways and coastlines that offer amazing Pacific Ocean views. The architecture is incredible, the food scene is top notch, the people are welcoming and warm, and there is so much to see and do. We did a multi-generational girls’ trip (ages 47 to 83) for four days, and it has just the right mix for everyone. Vancouver gives an upscale European vibe, and whether you’re kayaking in False Creek, walking the Seawall, exploring Granville Island, or eating your way through Gastown, the city feels effortlessly chic and alive. Don’t miss a day-trip (or longer!) to Victoria for the gorgeous Butchart Gardens and High Tea at The Empress.
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Things to do in Vancouver
Granville Island Market entrance
Visitors can explore Stanley Park, an expansive green oasis with forest trails and scenic seawall views right in the heart of the city. It’s a lovely, flat seven-mile walk.
The Granville Island Public Market, where local artisans, gourmet treats, farmer stalls, and waterfront views create an unforgettable shopping day. Make it extra fun by hopping a water taxi over after a short walk down from your hotel.
The food scene is world-class, offering everything from fresh Pacific seafood to diverse international cuisine. Highly suggest one of the Secret Food Tours in Gastown to really find some special gems.
Butchart Gardens on Victoria Island is spectacular for nature enthusiasts. Take a seaplane or the ferry over, and then a 20-min drive to the public gardens. They have 70+ horticulture staff on hand in high season, so you can imagine how stunning it is, and plantings change seasonally.
After the gardens, head over for High Tea at the iconic Empress Hotel, opened in 1908, and a host to many foreign dignitaries through the years.
Book a private boat tour around the waterways to see Vancouver from a different perspective as you catch some of the sights of the city’s unique architecture, Stanley Park, the Lion’s Gate Bridge; or include a trip up the Indian Arm fjord with its waterfalls.
Places to eat & drink in Vancouver
Local pastries. Photo by Peace Creative
Tableau Bar Bistro: Enjoy lunch or dinner at this lovely French cafe attached to the Loden hotel, always bustling with locals. Do not miss the fresh oysters and incredible steak tartare!
The Botanist: Found inside the Fairmont Pacific Rim, this farm and sea-to-table restaurant is delicious, very cool garden inspired decor, and a super innovative cocktail menu.
Published on Main: Canadian food with a flair, try the Chef’s seasonal tasting menu!
Miku Vancouver: A popular Japanese restaurant right on the waterfront, known for their incredible Aburi style sushi, which is flame-seared on the outside, giving every dish this amazing melt-in-your-mouth taste.
Sula Indian Restaurants: Mixing flavors from both southern and northern Indian, Sula is a modern take on traditional Indian cuisine. A favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Purebread Bakery: A perfect stop on your walk through Gastown, grab coffee and the most delicious pastries—you must try their fresh flaky croissants, and butter tarts (a Canadian favorite).
Need to know
Vancouver weather can vary (sun, rain, wind) from morning to evening, bring layers! Think fashion plus function to fit in with the locals—Vancouver is chic and laid back but also stylish and a bit more dressy than other West Coast cities.
Travel Advisor
Laura Pavlovich
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Vancouver page.