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Plan Vancouver

Canada · North America

3 days in Vancouver

Vancouver occupies an enviable spot in the world, blessed with miles of coastline, lush vegetation, and crowned by the North Shore Mountains. This vibrant Pacific Northwest city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and stunning natural beauty, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Plan this trip, free

Vancouver occupies an enviable spot in the world, blessed with miles of coastline, lush vegetation, and crowned by the North Shore Mountains.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Downtown & Waterfront Wonders

7 stops 14.6 km

MorningRent a bike and cycle the iconic Stanley Park Seawall, enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

AfternoonExplore historic Gastown, see the Steam Clock, then take a False Creek Ferry to Granville Island for lunch and market exploration.

EveningDine in Yaletown's trendy restaurants, then head to English Bay for a memorable sunset.

Bike rental for Stanley Park. Walk in Gastown. False Creek Ferry to Granville Island. Public transit for Yaletown/English Bay.

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  • All 3 days, 18 stops
  • Route map and walking times
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Must-see in Vancouver

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Vancouver

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Cheaper here than at home

  • Outdoor gear and Canadian labels

    Canada Goose, Arc'teryx and Lululemon are cheapest in Canada; sales tax is added at the till.

Outlet

about 25 min

McArthurGlen Vancouver

Designer outlet on Sea Island next to the airport.

Getting there. Canada Line SkyTrain to Templeton (about 25 minutes from Downtown), the outlet is at the station.

Official site Transport

Where locals shop

  • Loblaws CityShopsupermarket

    Popular one-stop supermarket chain with extensive fresh food departments and staple goods.

  • T&T Supermarketgrocery

    Go-to spot for fresh Asian produce, specialty ingredients, seafood, and hot meals.

  • Granville Island Public Marketfood market

    A vibrant public market located on a peninsula, Granville Island offers a sensory feast with fresh produce, gourmet foods, local crafts, and street performers. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to grab a bite, shop, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

  • Lonsdale Quay Marketfood & craft market

    Located in North Vancouver, Lonsdale Quay Market offers a diverse selection of fresh food, local crafts, and unique shops. It's easily accessible by SeaBus from downtown and provides fantastic views of the Vancouver skyline.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Vancouver
  • Visa: Most international travelers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa to enter Canada.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $180 mid-range
  • Best months: Jun – Sep
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ CAD · about US$180 a day
  • LanguageEnglish
  • Local timeAmerica/Vancouver
  • Best monthsJun · Jul · Aug · Sep
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsBusy

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: US State Department ↗ · UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Most international travelers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa to enter Canada.

Read moreShow less

Check official Canadian government websites for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Vancouver boasts an excellent public transit system (TransLink) with SkyTrain, SeaBus, and bus routes connecting the entire region. The downtown core is very walkable, and cycling is popular with dedicated bike lanes.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$100
  • Mid-range: about US$180
  • Comfort: about US$350

Good to know

Utilize the extensive public transit system (TransLink) including SkyTrain, SeaBus, and buses to get around efficiently.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Rent a bike to explore Stanley Park's Seawall, offering breathtaking views of the city, mountains, and ocean.
  • Pack layers, as Vancouver's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer, with sudden changes from sun to rain.
  • Explore the diverse culinary scene beyond downtown; neighborhoods like Commercial Drive and Main Street offer unique local eateries.
  • Book popular attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge or Grouse Mountain in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.

Stories

All
  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for Vancouver

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Cover: Anthony Maw on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors