3 Days in Vancouver: Itinerary Tips for First-Time Visitors
Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver perfectly mixes urban vibes with breathtaking nature. Travelling here for the first time and not sure what to do? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll give you a few handy tips on how to make the most of three days in this charming coastal city.
Day 1: Where city life meets nature
We recommend Canada Place, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, as the starting point of your Vancouver trip. Here, you can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy stunning views of the harbour and the North Shore Mountains in the background. We believe it is a perfect taste of what the city has to offer.
The best thing you can do next is visit Stanley Park, the largest urban park in Canada, loved both by tourists and locals. Spanning over 400 hectares, it’s packed with things to see and do, which means that everyone can find a fun activity to their liking.
The most popular attraction of the park is the Seawall, the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world, offering scenic views of the city skyline and the water. Many tourists enjoy renting a bike to fully experience its beauty.
Of course, there’s more to Stanley Park than just the Seawall. It offers many hiking trails, beaches, gardens, and historical landmarks. The famous totem poles are totally worth taking a look at.
Travelling with kids? No worries, the park offers great kid-friendly attractions as well. Take them to the Vancouver Aquarium (let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to see the adorable sea otters?) or let them splash around at the water park.
By the time you’re done exploring the park, chances are you’ll be starving. Good news – you don’t have to travel far, as there are excellent restaurants in West End, which is just a stone’s throw from the park. Our personal favourite is Kingyo, a perfect spot for Japanese cuisine.
Day 2: From historic streets to coastal charms
Another place that you can’t leave out during your Vancouver trip is Gastown, the oldest neighbourhood in the city, with famous tourist attractions like the Steam Clock and the Gassy Jack statue. Its Victorian brick buildings and cobbled streets create a unique historical atmosphere that takes you back a few centuries. It’s also a perfect spot to start your day as there are many cute cafés where you can stop for amazing coffee or a yummy breakfast.
Continue by making your way to Granville Island, home to the city’s famous Public Market, which is considered a must-visit for foodies. It’s a great place to grab a delicious lunch and fuel up for your next adventure.
Speaking of adventure, you can pick your next activity from several options depending on your preferences. For example, going on a whale-watching tour is a fantastic idea, especially if you’re visiting between May and September. Seeing orcas up close will be an experience you won’t easily forget.
More of an art enthusiast? Then we recommend a visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery. And in case you’re interested in museums, you can go to the Museum of Vancouver or the Vancouver Maritime Museum. Both are just around the corner from Kitsilano Beach, so you can stop by there and relax after your museum tour, if that’s something you fancy.
We understand that some travellers can feel tired in the evening and be tempted to just stay in their hotel room, scrolling through social media or even browsing new online casinos. But we’ve got a better idea: grab a blanket and head to English Bay to catch the sunset or take a leisurely walk along the seawall near Coal Harbour. Soaking in the golden hour and breathing in that fresh salty air will help you unwind better than staring at a screen.
Day 3: An escape to the outdoors
Vancouver is surrounded by stunning nature and no trip to the city would be complete without exploring it. So, on your last day, escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which offers spectacular views of treetops and the Capilano River below.
The 137-metre-long and 70-metre-high bridge is part of the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, which has plenty more to offer. You can enjoy striking rainforest views with the Treetops Adventure made up of seven smaller suspension bridges or experience a thrilling walk above the canyon with the Cliffwalk.
To get to the park, you can drive or take a free shuttle from downtown, but make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds as it’s one of the most popular attractions in Vancouver.
Your escape to nature doesn’t end here. Continue to Grouse Mountain, which is just about 10 minutes away. Ride the iconic Skyride or the recently opened Blue Grouse Gondola and enjoy incredible views. Once you’re up top, choose from a bunch of activities like visiting the Grizzly Bear Habitat or catching the Birds in Motion demonstration.
Wrap up your day trip with a panoramic ride on the Peak Chairlift, which rises to 4,100 feet above sea level, before taking the gondola down and heading back to enjoy your last evening in the city.