Vancouver in One Epic Day!

Experience the best of nature and city life in Vancouver!

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Vancouver, Canada offers endless possibilities to explore the city's towering skyscrapers, lush green parks, and diverse culture. Visitors can take a stroll through Stanley Park, where they can find stunning views of the city skyline and visit the Vancouver Aquarium. The city is also home to countless museums, galleries, and restaurants that showcase the city's unique blend of modernity and natural beauty.

Day trip plan

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Day

Vancouver in One Whirlwind Day!

  • Start off with a luscious brekkie at Medina Cafe, their waffles are to die for!
  • Get lost in the beauty of Stanley Park, it's a dense rainforest smack dab in the middle of the city!
  • Walk along the Seawall for some beach-y vibes and snap a couple of awesome photos of the Lions Gate Bridge.
  • Stop by the Granville Island Public Market, grab a quirky souvenir (and some fresh produce!) and be serenaded by the local buskers.
  • Take walk through the quaint streets of Gastown, get a glimpse of the Steam Clock and marvel at the vintage decor lining the sidewalks.
  • End the day with dinner at Vij's, the upscale Indian restaurant that Vancouverites can't rave enough about! Remember to make a reservation, as it's always packed!
  • This itinerary is sure to make the most of your time in Vancouver, giving you a bite-sized taste of what this bustling city has to offer. Happy adventuring!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Vancouver, Canada by plane is to fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is approximately 12km from downtown Vancouver. There are plenty of major airlines that operate flights to YVR from around the world.

Car

You can drive to Vancouver, Canada by taking Highway 1 from the east or west, or Highway 99 from the south. Vancouver is approximately 240km from Seattle, USA, and 145km from the US-Canada border.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Vancouver, Canada. However, you can take the Amtrak Cascades Train from Seattle, USA to Vancouver which takes around four hours.

Boat

Vancouver has a large port with many international cruise ships stopping there. You can also take a ferry from some parts of British Columbia to Vancouver Island, which is just a short drive from Vancouver.

Bus

Greyhound Canada operates intercity bus services that connect Vancouver, Canada to several major cities in the USA and Canada. The bus station in Vancouver is located downtown at Pacific Central Station.

More travel plans

4 Days to Explore Vancouver's Best Experiences

As a tourist visiting Vancouver, one can expect to marvel at the city's breathtaking natural settings that include stunning beaches and towering mountains. The city also offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, like exploring the bustling Chinatown or immersing oneself in the art scene at Granville Island. Lastly, foodies will undoubtedly delight in Vancouver's culinary offerings, from world-class seafood to delicious Asian fusion cuisine.

Escape for Romance: 4-Day Vancouver Getaway

A romantic trip to Vancouver, Canada provides a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and urban excitement. With a backdrop of majestic mountains and glistening waterways, couples can explore the city's scenic parks and beaches, indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, and discover a vibrant cultural scene. Whether strolling hand in hand through the charming neighborhoods or enjoying a sunset cruise, Vancouver is an idyllic destination for a romantic getaway.

Vibrant Vancouver: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

A family friendly trip to Vancouver, Canada, offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and entertainment. Explore the stunning Stanley Park with its lush greenery, scenic trails, and the Vancouver Aquarium for up-close encounters with marine life. Embrace the city's vibrant downtown, filled with kid-friendly museums, markets, and diverse dining options, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Vancouver Vibes: The Ultimate 5-Day Budget Guide

A trip to Vancouver, Canada on a limited budget can still be worthwhile with careful planning and budgeting. Many attractions, such as Stanley Park and Granville Island Market, are free or low-cost. Staying in budget accommodations, such as hostels or Airbnbs, and cooking meals instead of eating out can also help reduce expenses.