Are you planning to enjoy a weekend in Vancouver? Well, believe me, it is worth it. There are 100s of things to do in Vancouver but it’ll take a lot more than 2 days to explore. But you don’t have to worry, with thechaotictraveler’s help you can explore the best in Vancouver. It might look like a lot to consume in just 2 days but let’s take the must-visit places and make it memorable.
I created this itinerary some time ago when my friend was visiting Vancouver and I accommodated him throughout his travel plan. This travel plan for a weekend in Vancouver is what I feel is the best. Also, it doesn’t matter if you are visiting Vancouver or you live here. This itinerary is for everyone as you might find a hidden gem of Vancouver which you might not have known before.
I personally feel that vancouver has everything from best food to best scenic spots to lush green parks to beautiful beaches to mesmerizing mountains. Vancouver is the crown jewel of Beautiful British Columbia. It is very special to me as it is my home and i can share the amazing places as a local and not a tourist so that you can experience the real vancouver.
Best Travel Tips for a Weekend in Vancouver
Now before i start with the itinerary for travelling in vancouver i would like to share some of the best tips to know while you’re in the vancouver. It is important to know all about the place you are visiting so that you can stay safe and get the best deals in vancouver.
What is Best Time to Visit Vancouver?
Personally i believe that the best time to visit vancouver depends upon the preference and interest of what you want to do and where you want to go. As Vancouver is year round destination. As compared to rest of the canada, vancouver is one of the best destination that receive almost less to no snow with mild weather conditions. Therefore, it is easier to still enjoy a lot of things. Categorizing this in term of months will be:
Summer which is from June to August. This time of year is peak tourist season. The weather is usually warm and sunny. Summer is perfect for those which are more into outdoor activities especially Hiking, Camping, Beaches, adventure activities and parks. Now this weather is preferred by everyone so you’ll find everything full and packed. It’s not just Tourists but locals as well.
Fall which is from September to November. This time of the year shows the true nature of vancouver where all the trees change colors and temperature is mild with stunning views. This time is amazing for those who love nature and want to enjoy the wonderful wildlife and forests. This time is more popular with local hikers and campers who want to get the maximum before the temperature gets down.
Winter which is from December to February. While the city of vancouver receive almost no snow but the nearby mountains looks stunning. This time of year is great from skiing and snowboarding and enthusiasts from all over the world come to vancouver to enjoy this time of years. Places like Grouse mountain and whistler are packed with experts to learners. If you feel like learning snow activity this is best time of the year.
Spring which is from March to May. Spring bring back the mild temperature after the cold winter. This also bring back the most beautiful time of the year with blooming cherry blossoms. One more thing that come back after this is the outdoor activity enthusiasts. This is perfect time to go hiking or cycling, start gardening and explore the beauty of downtown vancouver and Stanley park.
How to Reach Vancouver?
Arriving to vancouver is very easy with connectivity from all around the world and a beautiful airport, Sea Port and Road access from other part of canada and USA. Vancouver is a major transportation hub with routes to all the directions.
By Air:Â Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the major airport serving the city of vancouver with second airport nearby which is Abbotsford International Airport (YXX). Both the airport are well connected too domestic and international flights. YVR is well connected with vancouver with Taxi Service, Regular Shuttle Service and Canada Line Skytrain to reach any part of Lower Mainland Vancouver.
By Train:Â Via Rail offers Train service from various parts of canada including Toronto, Edmonton, and Jasper. If you’re travelling from USA the you can take Amtrak‘s Cascades route which runs from Seattle, Washington to Vancouver. Both the train are more focused on a scenic route and run slower than other train. They might be time consuming but worth the view.
By Road:Â Vancouver is easily accessible by a car via major highway connecting from all major cities in Canada and USA. Several bus companies like Greyhound and Pacific coach lines provide bus services from Canada and USA.
How to Travel Within Vancouver?
Once you are in the vancouver you need to figure out the best way to travel within the city. There are multiple ways to travel within the city and here are few ways to get from A to B in Vancouver.
By Transit: Vancouver transit system consist of Train, Buses and Seabus which provide extensive coverage across the vancouver and surrounding areas. This system is very well developed and maintained. You can buy single use ticket, Day pass or Reloadable Compass Card.
By Car:Â There are a lot of Car rental services available all over the city with all kind of cars that you need from budget to luxury. If you are a local, you might also have opportunity to get EVO for yourself.
Taxi/ Ride Sharing:Â Taxis are available all over the vancouver. Ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available with amazing offers running everytime. Always compare between these service as in some areas local taxis are cheaper whereas in other are Uber/Lyft is cheaper.
Cycling:Â Vancouver is a bicycle friendly city with dedicated bicycle lanes available in most of the areas. There are plenty of bicycle rental service available based on hour, day, or longer time. You can rent bicycle from bike shops or try some of the bike share programs like Mobi by Rogers which has locations all over the vancouver. Some areas has started to introduce electric bicycle, scooters, etc.
Where to Stay in Vancouver?
If you’re not a local and visiting here only for a weekend then staying at a right place is very important. It need to be centrally located but also close to everything else. Food and night life is also important. I would recommend you to choose a nice Airbnb for the stay but Hotels are also an option.
Gastown is known for its Historic charm, cobblestone streets, classic cafes and boutiques. Nightlife is just minutes away with amazing pubs and clubs. This area is vibrant for those who want to indulge in the art and culture of vancouver.
Downtown vancouver is the charm of vancouver. Staying here is staying in the heart of vancouver. There are all kind of places to stay in downtown from budget friendly options to luxury places.
Check out these amazing Properties
One Bed Apartment In Downtown Vancouver Modern Comfort Meets City Vibes
The Douglas, Autograph Collection
If you don’t want to stay in or near downtown there are a lot of areas of other amazing areas like West End with its diverse food option and near to some of the beautiful beaches. If you want to go for more luxury and upscale area then yaletown is your best option.
5 DAY ROAD TRIP FROM VANCOUVER: EXPLORE BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA
Complete 2 Day Vancouver Travel Itinerary
Vancouver is a big city with a lot of amazing places to go and things to do. It is really hard to figure out what to include and what to leave but i tried my best to include the places that everyone must see. Specially with a time limit of just 2 day. So let’s get start with your itinerary for the next 2 days.
Day 1
Start with a Coffee
Start you day with an amazing coffee and breakfast at one of the cafe either on Robson Street or Denman Street where you can found numerous cafe with fresh brew and amazing breakfast. Once you are done with the breakfast you can check Transit service near you and head straight to Stanley Park.
Stanley Park
Start with renting a bike as stanley park has trail all over the park to explore this amazing area. Taking in the amazing old tree, vibrant flower garden, and the Seawall you will be mesmerized by the beauty of this place. Do not miss the Totem Poles, Beaver lake and Prospect Point while you’re here. Once you go around the seawall come to the Vancouver Aquarium.
Vancouver Aquarium
This places is filled with hundreds not thousands of incredible ocean species and home to some of the most amazing creatures in the world. This is a gem in the stanley park. One can spend a lot of time here exploring and learning a lot of about the ocean and the wonders of the oceans. Last time when i visited this place i spent hours here just exploring the place and checking out some of the most beautiful wonders of the world.
Granville Island
Once you’re done with the aquarium, you can take a bus and head straight to the Granville Island. I didn’t recommmend it in morning as it get filled up with people. Checkout the granville island market and you might something good of your intrest. Next if you love seafood like i do then you need to have your lunch at granville island. It might be a a bit more expensive then anywhere else but the food is worth it. If you want to spend some time in water then this is best place to rent a boat and head to the water. If you’re with a group then renting out a boat could be a good idea.
If you want to try out some beer then Granville Island brewery is a must visit place where you can enjoy amazing local beer. After spending some time here and nearby area you can take some rest and then head straight to Gastown.
Gastown
Wandering through the historic streets and one of the oldest neighbourhood of the Vancouver. Explore the victorian architecture and take the picture at famous steam clock. If you feel you need another coffee then this is the right place, checkout some of the most amazing cafes in this area and take a evening snack.
Explore some of the pubs and club in the area and meet some of the great artists in this area. A lot of time there are artists who can get your visit make memorable by their talent so don’t feel low and interact with them. After that you can head to final destination of the day which is English bay beach.
English Bay Beach
Now you might think why go to a beach at the end in evening. Well, English bay beach on a Saturday comes to life with a lot happening there. From small concerts to amazing art work to great artists showing their work. You’ll find a lot of things which will keep you busy here. Make sure to carry extra layer as it get chilly here by this time.
Once you are done with beach then head out and check out some of local restaurant in the area and finish your day with an amazing dinner and drink.
Day 2
On day 2 start by having an amazing mexican breakfast at one of the mexican restaurants in downtown or gastown. Make sure to eat enough as today you’ll be exploring a lot and there will be a lot of walking. After having the breakfast you’ll be heading to Vancouver Art Gallery.
Vancouver Art Gallery
Start your day with visiting this gem of vancouver which is home to impressive collection of artwork. Depending on the day you are visiting you might be able to catch a special exhibition or else you can choose a guided tour and explore the gallery. On weekend you might also find a lot happening just outside of the art gallery as locals gather to enjoy if the day is sunny. Once you’re done her you can take a stroll and check Robson Street and some of the best outlets from in the vancouver’s premier shopping district. and after finshing this you can head for the capilano suspension bridge.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
This Bridge is located on Capilano River. It is recommended to book the tickets in advance through their website. If you’re afraid of heights then this bridge is to test those fear. Check out the souvenir shop and you’ll find a lot of amazing things to take back with you. Once you’re done checking the bridge, make sure to explore the work park. The trails are well marked and the treetop views are mesmerizing. It will take you at least 2 hour to explore this place so before leaving this place you can have a meal at Cliff House Restaurant & Bar.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Website
Lonsdale Quay Market
After exploring the capilano suspension bridge the next stop would be the Lonsdale quay market. For the change of scenery and taste of local culture this is the place. Once you’re her check out the vibrant culture of the market, where you’ll find artisanal food, speciality shops, and unique gifts. Feel free to sample some of the delicious snacks and make sure to show your support.
After exploring the market settle down for evening meal. Sit back, relax and soak in the ambiance as you enjoy a memorable meal.As the evening winds down catch the seabus to downtown vancouver.
Evening
On this weekend filled with new experience and unforgettable moment in both the city and its neighbourhood you gathered unforgettable memories. Cheers to these moments and a weekend well spent in beautiful Vancouver.
Wrap-Up
Vancouver is my Home and being here of years now i can say i have loved this city. No matter the season, the weather, the day; Vancouver have never let down its charm. Every sunrise and sunset in vancouver is just mesmerizing. If possible i would encourage you to spend at least a week in vancouver.
I Hope you have a wounderful trip here. Make sure to comment below and let me know what amazing places have i missed.
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