Visit Vancouver

Where mountains meet ocean

Tour
5,3 km
2h15
21 audios

20 lieux d'intérêt à découvrir pour visiter Vancouver in one day

Text version

Welcome to the stunning beauty of Western Canada! I hope you’re ready, because you’re in for a real treat on this side of the world! In the larger-than-life category, we’ve rarely seen any better. But before leaving you to immerse yourself in the surrounding wilderness, follow us on a tour of the city of Vancouver. With almost 3 million inhabitants it is Canada’s third-largest city. This megalopolis with its enviable quality of life sits comfortably on the edge of the Pacific and is largely surrounded by mountains and gigantic parks. A dream come true for anyone still hesitating between city and nature. Add to this a top-quality art scene, a lively nightlife, numerous sporting and cultural opportunities as well as laid-back locals, and you’ve got the perfect mix for the city you’d like to call home! So, take a few days out of your trip to live like a local and explore its various neighborhoods, with their ever-changing atmospheres. But first, let’s take a look at what the historic center has to say.

Emilie

Publié le 11/03/2025

1. Dominion building

Standing before you is one of Vancouver's most iconic buildings, sparking our curiosity with its bright yellows and reds, and its old-world charisma. Read more
2. Harbour Centre Lookout Tower

Allow us a quick word about the building you see a little further down the street, coupled with an observation tower. This is the Harbour Center, a skyscraper built in 1977, which includes an office tower and the Vancouver Lookout. Read more
3. Holy Rosary Cathedral

While it's unusual for Europeans to find a Gothic cathedral between two skyscrapers, in North America it's quite the norm. The building on your left is the Holy Rosary Cathedral. Read more

4. Royal Sweet Diamond

This life-size bronze and platinum bull you see on your left is the work of Joe Fafard, the favorite artist of the building's owner, a certain Mr. Gordon Diamond. Read more

5. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Across the street, you can't miss Vancouver's imposing Fairmont Hotel. If you've ever traveled around Canada, it's certainly not the first one you've stumbled upon, the best-known being in Quebec City. Read more

6. Christ Church Cathedrale

In case you were wondering, that little church on your right is the Cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster. Built in 1895 in a gothic style, it is one of Vancouver's largest places of worship Read more

7. Victoria Art Gallery

The neo-classical building on your left is the Vancouver Art Gallery. If the museum has this formal look, it's because the building was originally constructed in 1911 as the provincial courthouse. Read more

8. Robson street

As you've probably noticed, Robson Street is one of the city's busiest shopping streets. In 1895, its high concentration of shops led to the installation of tramway lines. Read more

9. Olympic Flame

To appreciate the importance of this sculpture, imagine it lit up- or rather, set on fire. As tradition dictates, after being lit by the sun's rays in Olympia, during a ceremony in the temple of Hera Read more

10. Harbour Green Park

Bute Street leads straight into Harbour Green Park, stretching along Coal Harbour. The city has many parks and green spaces, not to mention the incredible Stanley Park, Read more

11. The Digital Orca

No, you are not dreaming, the sculpture in front of you truly is pixelated. It's called the "Digital Orca", and was built next to the convention center in 2009. Read more

12. Hydroplanes

If there's one spectacle in Vancouver that both locals and tourists love, it's the ballet of the hydroplanes. As common as this may seem to our Canadian friends, it's not something you see every day in most places. Read more

Prices and Availability

13. The drop

Another original sculpture, placed along the harbour, here comes "The Drop". You've no doubt heard about the city's unflattering nickname of "Raincouver" for its notorious rainfalls. Read more

14. Marine building

I'd like to draw your attention to the building on your right. It's the sublime 1930 Marine Building. You're looking at one of Canada's finest examples of Art Deco. Read more

15. Canada Place

This long tip reaching out into the water is the part of the harbour known as Canada Place! It was created as the Canadian pavilion for the 1986 World's Fair. Read more

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16. Former Vancouver Post Office

There are several imposing buildings here. On your left is the former Vancouver Post Office, it is now converted into a shopping mall. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style, it is a classic Vancouver landmark, Read more

01 gare de vancouver waterfront poi petit

17. Vancouver Waterfront Railway Station

That beautiful column-supported building in front of you is the Waterfront Railway Station, owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway, one of Canada's national railroad companies. Read more

18. Gastown Steam Clock

The real star of the show, the proud representative of Vancouver's historic town center, is her: Gastown's famous Steamclock. As its name suggests, it's a clock whose mechanism is powered by a steam engine. Read more

19. Mapple Tree Square

Your arrival at the intersection of Maple Tree Square, marks your entrance at the very heart of Vancouver's birthplace. Let's go back in time for a moment. You're standing where it all began, in the center of Gastown. Read more

20. Woodward building

See this typical brick building, crowned by a big red W, sitting on top of a replica of the tip of the Eiffel Tower? This is the oldest part of a historic downtown building, constructed in 1903 for Woodward's department store. Read more

Découvrez Vancouver avec l’application navaway^®

An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts

20 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends

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Top Things to Do

Experience the adventure in Vancouver: set off on a whale-watching tour in their natural habitat.

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Recommended starting point

No need to worry about where to begin! Our tours are designed as a loop, so you can jump in wherever you are. The navigation system and audioguide will automatically adjust to your location. However, if you happen to be nearby, we do have a preferred starting point : Waterfront subway station : 601 West Cordova Street

Recommended underground lot

Go Park, 320 Granville Street

Parking in the city center is not recommended. It’s better to rent a car after your stay in Vancouver, and if you have a vehicle, try to leave it at your accommodation. If none of this is possible, you can park on the street, but be mindful of the parking zones.

Parking meters operate from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week. You can pay via the PayByPhone app. Remember your license plate number, as you’ll often need it! Not only at the parking meter but also in restaurants inside shopping malls that offer parking for their visitors. You will be asked for it when paying for your meal, and the parking fee will be automatically calculated and deducted from your bill.

Public transport information

The airport is located 30 minutes south of the city, in Richmond. If you don’t want to take a taxi, you can reach downtown using the SkyTrain (around 9 CAD in 2023), Vancouver’s metro system. Operating from approximately 5 AM to midnight, it is clean and efficient. The best option is to get a “Compass Card” and top it up. You can also take the Aquabus (not part of the SkyTrain system), which is particularly useful for reaching Granville Island.

Weather

You’ve probably heard the ironic nickname given to the city. If people call it “Raincouver,” you can guess that rain is a frequent guest! The best time to visit Vancouver is either summer or winter, depending on the theme of your trip, but avoid spring at all costs—it rains constantly. June, July, and August offer pleasant temperatures around 25°C, and winter, contrary to what you might think, is not that cold, with temperatures rarely dropping below 0°C. Snow and cold are reserved for the mountains, while the valley enjoys a typical oceanic climate. In fact, Vancouver is the only city in Canada that doesn’t experience a freezing winter. So, unless you’re coming for winter sports, the best time to visit is from May to September.

Currency

The city of Vancouver, like the rest of Canada, uses the Canadian dollar. You can exchange some money before you leave to cover your initial expenses or exchange your euros upon arrival. Be aware that exchange rates are often less favorable at airports, so it’s best to wait until you’re in the city center. However, you don’t necessarily need to exchange money—you can withdraw cash directly from ATMs, though fees apply (exchange rate + bank fees from the ATM provider, usually $2 to $3). Another option is to pay directly with your credit card. Each transaction will be subject to the exchange rate and your bank’s international fees. Check your bank’s fees for foreign transactions before choosing the most cost-effective option. In any case, make sure to inform your bank about your trip to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Tipping in Canada

Be aware that tipping is not optional! A good tip is considered to be between 15% and 20% if you were satisfied with the service, but a minimum of 10% is expected. Also, keep in mind that in Canada, prices are displayed before taxes, as different provinces apply different tax rates. These taxes are added separately at checkout. Expect to pay around 12-13% more than the displayed price, and on top of that, don’t forget to add the tip!

Got Some Extra Time in Vancouver ?

We first introduced you to the city through its most historic districts. But today, it has grown into one of North America’s largest metropolises, home to diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique identity. Together, they shape Vancouver’s reputation as the capital of British Columbia.

STANLEY PARK

The undeniable star of Vancouver is, of course, the magnificent Stanley Park and its intriguing totems. As the largest urban park in Canada, don’t expect to cover it in a short stroll! Spanning over 400 hectares, the park can be explored by bike, on foot, or even by car. However, you’ll need at least a couple of days to fully experience its beauty.
Must-See Spots in Stanley Park:
⭐ Totems at Brockton Point – These striking totems quickly became one of British Columbia’s main attractions. While the ones displayed today are replicas, they remain just as fascinating as the originals. Each totem tells the story of a family or an individual, with colors and symbols you can try to decipher!

⭐ Vancouver Aquarium – If you’re fascinated by marine life, don’t miss the Vancouver Aquarium, considered one of the best in Canada.
⭐ Prospect Point – Located at the northern tip of the park, this is where you’ll find the most spectacular view of the area, overlooking the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. Head to the free viewing platform for breathtaking vistas of West and North Vancouver.
⭐ Lost Lagoon – The name itself sounds like an adventure movie setting! This lagoon, while easily accessible near the park’s entrance, remains a haven of wild beauty—the perfect spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
⭐ Beaches – Locals keep it simple: the beaches are named First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach. Third Beach is the most scenic, perfect for a refreshing dip in English Bay or simply soaking in the surrounding nature. On Tuesday evenings, it transforms into a lively gathering spot where drummers create a rhythm for passersby to dance along.
⭐ Seawall Walk – This 28-kilometer scenic path encircles Stanley Park, hugging the coastline for incredible waterfront views. Cycling is the best way to explore the entire trail while fully enjoying the landscapes.

How to Visit Stanley Park
🚗 By Car – The 9 km Stanley Park Drive allows you to explore the park from within. Paid parking spots are available near each major attraction. Be aware: it’s a one-way road! If you miss your stop, you’ll need to circle back around.
🚌 By Bus – City bus Line 19 has only two stops within the park, one near the aquarium and another near Lost Lagoon.
🚴 By Bike – Multiple bike rental options are available throughout Vancouver, offering both standard and electric bikes. For convenience, choose a rental agency near the park.

CHINATOWN

Mentioned briefly in our itinerary, Vancouver’s Chinatown is worth exploring in greater depth. Here are some must-see highlights:
⭐ Millennium Gate – The grand archway marking the entrance to Chinatown.
⭐ Shanghai Alley – The historic heart of Chinatown, where the first Chinese shops and restaurants were established.
⭐ Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden – A stunning classical Chinese garden, offering a peaceful retreat in an idyllic setting. (Entrance fee applies.)
⭐ Chinese Times Building – Home to the first Chinese newspaper in Vancouver.
⭐ Chinese Freemasons Building – A remarkable blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

YALETOWN

Like many port cities, Vancouver has transformed its old warehouse district into a vibrant and trendy hub. Yaletown is the place to be for art galleries, high-end fashion boutiques, lively terraces, and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

DAVIE VILLAGE

Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ district, Davie Village, is known for its laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you’ll find:
🌈 Unique boutiques and LGBTQ+ bookstores
🌈 An international and gourmet food scene
🌈 Lively nightclubs
🌈 The famous rainbow crosswalk near Jim Deva Plaza
🏳️‍🌈 Did you know? The neighborhood also features double-sided rainbow banners and Joe Average’s “Sun” artwork, paying tribute to the artist’s dedication to raising awareness for HIV/AIDS. This is also the home of Vancouver’s annual Pride Parade!

GRANVILLE ISLAND

A must-visit in Vancouver! Granville Island will likely become one of your favorite spots in the city.
🛍️ Explore the covered market, where you can discover local specialties and international flavors.
🎭 Enjoy entertainment and culture – The island is home to theaters, artist studios, craft shops, and charming cafés.
🍻 Relax in cozy bars that will tempt you to extend your stay!
How to Get to Granville Island
🚍 By Bus – Line 50 connects Gastown to False Creek, stopping near Granville Island.
⛴ By Boat – The Rainbow Aquabus and False Creek Ferry offer scenic rides across False Creek, with stops at Granville Island.
🚶‍♂️ By Foot or Bike – Pedestrian and cycling paths make for a pleasant trip to the island, and you can even bring your bike onto the Aquabus!
🕘 Market Opening Hours – 9 AM – 6 PM daily, except Mondays in January, when it’s closed.

THE BEST MUSEUMS

Museum of Anthropology : If there is a museum that you must not miss, this is the one ! It is essential to understand the roots of Canada and the culture of the First Nations. The MOA is part of the University of British Columbia. It shares its collections with us, so we cab discover the lives of the first ever inhabitants of those gigantic lands through their everyday tools, or even through art or totems. It is a fascinating place, to absolutely not miss !
Science World : For aspiring scientists,or science enthousiasts, Science World showcases the world of science and new technologies. Already beloved among families, this interactive museum is a fun and stimulating space that will delight visitors of all ages!
Bill Reid Gallery : Here is the only gallery of the country, which exhibits contemporary indigenous artists of the North Coast of Canada. This museum honors Bill Reid, while presenting a beautiful collection of the artist’s work. He was from the Haidas tribe. This cultural center, located in the middle of downton, plans temporary exhibits, events and meets, in order to highlight indigenous culture, its values and the link between the people.
Contemporary Art Gallery : This contemporary art gallery is the oldest still in activity. Exhibits change regularly and correspond to a major scene for contemporary art in Canada. This space is rather small and private, but it is also free, so let your curiosity run wild and do not hesitate to see what happens inside

THE BEST BEACHES IN VANCOUVER

You may not think of Vancouver as a beach destination, but the city boasts some stunning waterfront spots. While summer swimming is best in July and August, Vancouver’s beaches are great for reading, picnicking, or beach volleyball year-round.
🏖 English Bay Beach (First Beach) – Closest to downtown, making it the busiest beach. It’s famous for incredible sunsets and the “A-maze-ing Laughter” statues, featuring 14 giant figures laughing out loud! The beach is also wheelchair accessible, with all-terrain wheelchairs and a mobility mat available.
🌅 Sunset Beach – True to its name, this is one of the best spots to watch the sunset. Located in Vancouver’s West End, it’s a family-friendly beach without a crowded feel.
💪 Kitsilano Beach (Kits Beach) – Vancouver’s answer to Venice Beach! Expect to see bodybuilders, joggers, volleyball players, and families enjoying the sun. The highlight? A huge outdoor heated swimming pool!
🎏 Jericho Beach – Less crowded than Kits Beach, perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
🌲 Locarno Beach & Spanish Banks Beach – Moving west, the beaches become wilder and more scenic. Spanish Banks Beach is particularly popular among skimboarders.
🌊 Wreck Beach – Vancouver’s largest nudist beach! Spanning over 6 km, this wild and serene beach faces Vancouver Island. Who knows—you might even feel tempted to embrace the natural vibes!

THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND VANCOUVER

Vancouver’s surroundings offer such breathtaking natural landscapes that you might forget you just left a bustling metropolis filled with skyscrapers!

FLYING OVER VANCOUVER IN A SEAPLANE

There’s nothing quite like discovering a region from the sky—and doing so in a seaplane makes it even more special!
💙 Take off from Vancouver’s harbor and admire the city, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains from above.
📸 A 30-minute flight will give you the chance to take stunning photos and enjoy the thrill of landing on water!
🛩 Available from May to September.

CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE PARK

📍 One of the most iconic attractions near Vancouver!
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must-see, and it’s easily accessible (free shuttles depart from Canada Place in downtown Vancouver). Located just 10 km away, the park offers various experiences beyond the bridge itself:
🌲 The Suspension Bridge – Walk 70 meters above the Capilano River on this thrilling 137-meter-long bridge.
🌄 Cliffwalk – A narrow pathway suspended along the cliffs for an unforgettable experience.
🌲 Treetop Adventures – A network of smaller suspension bridges high up in the trees!
📜 Cultural and historical exhibits on the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Tsleil-Waututh peoples and early settlers.
💰 Entry fee: Prices can be steep. Pro tip: Check for discounts after 4 PM, when tickets can be up to 30% cheaper!

SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY & TRAIL

The legendary Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) is one of the most scenic roads in Canada. This 120 km route winds from the Pacific Ocean fjords to the snow-capped peaks of Whistler, offering spectacular stops along the way.
⏳ Best time to visit? June to September, when the snow has melted, making all trails accessible.
Highlights of the Sea to Sky Highway
⭐ Whytecliff Park – A hidden gem in West Vancouver, offering stunning views of Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast. At low tide, you can walk to the rocky islet just offshore.
⭐ Lions Bay & Tunnel Bluffs – A small, picturesque village where hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints over the ocean.
⭐ Porteau Cove Provincial Park – A tranquil nature escape ideal for camping, hiking, kayaking, and even scuba diving!
⭐ Shannon Falls – A 335-meter waterfall, the third-highest in British Columbia, located right off Highway 99.
⭐ Sea to Sky Gondola – 🚠 An unforgettable gondola ride from Squamish to a panoramic viewing platform 885 meters above sea level. You can also hike up instead of taking the gondola!
⭐ Brandywine Falls – A short, easy hike (perfect for families) leads to this stunning waterfall set in a lush forest.
⭐ Garibaldi Lake – One of the most beautiful hikes in British Columbia! This turquoise glacier-fed lake is surrounded by towering pine trees and snow-capped mountains.
⏳ Trail details:
📍 Start: Rubble Creek parking lot, south of Whistler
🥾 Distance: 18 km round trip (~6 hours)
📈 Elevation gain: 820 meters
🏕️ Camping allowed

WHISTLER: CANADA’S LEGENDARY MOUNTAIN RESORT

The Sea to Sky Highway leads to Whistler, home to the world-famous Whistler Blackcomb ski resort. Just 2 hours from Vancouver, Whistler is a year-round destination offering activities for every traveler.
Things to Do in Whistler
⭐ Lost Lake – A serene, secluded lake, perfect for a picnic, a swim, or simply enjoying nature.
⭐ Peak to Peak Gondola – 🚠 The world’s longest horizontal gondola line (4.4 km), connecting the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb with breathtaking views!
⭐ Seaplane Tour Over Garibaldi Park – Soar above the rugged mountain landscapes, glaciers, and reflective lakes.
⭐ Whistler Bungee – For adrenaline seekers, BC’s highest bungee jump (50 meters over the Cheakamus River) is an unforgettable thrill!
⭐ Whistler Mountain Bike Park – 🚵‍♂️ The top mountain biking destination in North America! With 30+ km of trails, including beginner to expert-level tracks, this is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts.
⭐ Joffre Lakes – One of Canada’s most photogenic hikes, featuring three stunning turquoise lakes fed by glaciers.
🥾 Trail details:
📍 Start: Joffre Lakes parking lot, near Pemberton
🥾 Distance: 10 km round trip
⏳ Time: ~4-5 hours

SKIING IN WHISTLER

If you visit Vancouver in winter, you’re in for a treat! Whistler is considered North America’s best ski resort, offering:
🎿 Over 3,307 hectares of ski terrain
🏔 The two biggest vertical drops in North America
❄️ 10 meters of snow per year (that’s 3x more than the Alps!)
💰 Lift ticket prices:
· Low season: ~CAD 135/day
· High season: ~CAD 300/day (2023/24 rates)

VANCOUVER & BEYOND: A PERFECT BLEND OF CITY & NATURE

Vancouver is one of those rare cities where urban sophistication meets untamed wilderness. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or soaring above the city in a seaplane, this destination has something for everyone.
💙 Ready to experience Vancouver? Pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!

Popular activities to discover

Discover Vancouver from every angle: explore the suspension bridge park, take a scenic seaplane flight, and enjoy breathtaking views from the lookout point.