vancouver 1 day tour

Vancouver in One Day – The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

Home | Travel | North America | Canada | Vancouver | Vancouver in One Day – The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

Visiting Vancouver in one day  was the best start we could have to what has been the best trip of our life so far. Vancouver is one of the top cities in western Canada, and with its eclectic blend of urbanity and natural beauty, it’s not hard to see why.

We took a  15-day Canadian Rockies road trip , but first, we spent  one perfect day in Vancouver, British Columbia . There are so many things to do here, so deciding how to spend 24 hours in this city is no easy feat.

In this guide, I’ll share some ideas for  what to do for 1 day in Vancouver . Whether you choose to stay downtown or want to check out the natural surroundings, there is something for you.

And if you have more time, don’t miss out our post with the 25 best things to do in Vancouver.

Vancouver in one day – morning itinerary

Have breakfast at The Templeton, the best way to start your day in Vancouver

We started our  perfect day in Vancouver  with a hearty breakfast at  The Templeton , and I highly recommend it. This popular diner is close to several main attractions in the city center, so it’s the best place to fuel up for a big day.

The restaurant has an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with vegetarian options. Some of the highlights include the  Farmers Breakfast  and the  Big Ass Breakfast , but everything is delicious, and the portions are enough for two or more people! It’s a popular hangout spot thanks to its classic 1950s style, complete with jukeboxes and huge milkshakes.

The Templeton is known for friendly service, good food, and a pleasant atmosphere, which we can attest to. Plus, it’s open daily, so you’ll be able to visit no matter when you plan your  Vancouver 1-day itinerary .

Walk through Stanley Park

After a delicious brunch, enjoy a stroll around  Stanley Park . Walking through this huge urban park will take a couple of hours, but you could also rent a bicycle to get around.

Follow the Seawall Path, which does a 5.5-mile loop around the park. You’ll pass by some interesting sites, including the  Girl in a Wetsuit  statue and Prospect Point, which provides awesome views of the lighthouse and harbor.

Continue to Siwash Rock, then check out Second Beach. This dog-friendly beach has beach volleyball, a heated pool, and if you’re lucky, a chance to see some wild orcas. English Bay (First Beach) is a 15-minute walk south and offers a family-friendly atmosphere and kayak rentals.

Finally, the First Nations totem poles are a must-see in Vancouver in one day . These colorful monuments reflect the history and culture of the indigenous Salish people, who have lived on the land for hundreds of years.

Take a panorama tour by seaplane

After walking through Stanley Park, get a totally different perspective of the city. This  seaplane tour  departs from a marina next to the park and does a 20-minute loop over Vancouver.

Marvel at the giant splash of the plane as you take off from the harbor. You’ll get a breathtaking view of the city, including the unmistakable Canada Place, as well as the North Shore Mountains. If you’re wondering  how to spend a day in Vancouver , this is it!

Have lunch at Granville Island Brewing

Next, head to  Granville Island , which has a more laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re  in Vancouver for one day without a car  since you can take the footbridge or a ferry.

Granville Island is full of bars, restaurants, and specialty shops. I recommend stopping by the Granville Island Public Market, a shopping haven full of craft stalls, fresh produce, and any souvenir imaginable.

When you get hungry, grab a table at  Granville Island Brewing Co.  for some munchies and a beer or two. They also serve beer flights so you can sample 3, 6 or 10 different brews.

24 hours in Vancouver, Canada – afternoon itinerary

Take a waterfront sightseeing cruise

While you’re already in Granville, hop on a zodiac boat for a sightseeing tour. This 1.5-hour  waterfront cruise   is one of the best  one-day tours in Vancouver, BC,  and sails along the English Bay and North Shore.

Take in the beautiful views of the Vancouver cityscape and see Coal Harbour, False Creek, and other iconic sights. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and dolphins near the coast!

Visit Chinatown, a must-see in Vancouver in one day

Back on the mainland, a visit to  Chinatown  is something you must add to your  Vancouver one-day itinerary . The city has a large Asian population, so its Chinatown is a bustling place of different cultures and cuisines.

One of the first things you’ll see is the Millennium Gate. Flanked by a stone lion on either side, the gate is three stories high and has a colorful terra cotta roof.

As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll pass by various restaurants and shops, several with vintage neon signs. Stop in for a snack or trinket, then check out the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. There is an entrance fee but it’s worth it because the grounds are filled with peaceful koi ponds, plants and shrubs, and a pagoda.

See the sunset from Vancouver Lookout

Not far from Chinatown is the  Vancouver Lookout , a 553-foot-tall observatory. Take a 40-second ride to the top in a glass elevator, then look out over the city and enjoy 360º views.

From up there, you’ll be able to see Metro Vancouver, the beautiful North Shore Mountains, and on clear days even Vancouver Island just off the Pacific Coast. Plan your  1-day Vancouver itinerary  so you get to the lookout just in time to see the sunset, then, climb back down and enjoy some evening fun in Gastown.

And don’t forget to visit the Gastown’s iconic Steam Clock. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Lookout.

End your day in Vancouver, BC – evening itinerary

Have dinner at guilt & co., what to do in vancouver in 1 day.

You’ve had a  perfect day in Vancouver , but it’s not over yet! After visiting the lookout, head to  Guilt & Co.  for dinner, cocktails, and live music. It’s in the Gastown neighborhood, so you’ll be in the ideal spot to wrap up your night.

Enjoy the nightlife in Gastown

Gastown  is a lively area of alternative shops, cafes, and clubs, so it’s a ton of fun at night. Go bar-hopping and stop by the Royal Dinette  to get a drink from the award-winning best bartender in the world, Kaitlyn Stewart.

The town’s cobblestone streets and jazz influence add to its appeal, and the neighborhood overlaps with Chinatown, so it’s always an active place. You can browse the shops, mingle with the locals, or listen to a live band. Whatever you do, if you’re only  in Vancouver for a day , Gastown is a must-see.

End your perfect day in Vancouver at Fairmont Hotel

By the end of the night, you need somewhere to lay your head. If you’re looking for the best luxury hotels in town, I recommend the  Fairmont Hotel Vancouver , which is conveniently located in the city center. Plus, it’s just five minutes from the SkyTrain, so you can easily get out of Vancouver without a car.

If you’re traveling on a budget, the Blue Horizon Hotel is also a great alternative and is not far from there.

Alternative things to do in Vancouver for a day

If you can only spend one day in Vancouver but prefer to enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, we have a few ideas.

Above, you have seen what to do in Vancouver in a day to see the most important landmarks in the metro area. However, as you’ll learn in our guide on the  best things to do in Vancouver ,  there are other tours and activities that can help our more outdoorsy readers create the perfect one day Vancouver itinerary.

Whale watching, a perfect morning alternative in Vancouver

Without a doubt, the highlight of our trip was  whale-watching in Vancouver , so I must recommend it.

The tour we took lasted 5 hours and started in Granville Island at 8:30 am, making it the perfect alternative for the morning itinerary. If you’re looking for a different thing to do in one day in Vancouver, BC, or have some extra time before catching your flight, I can’t recommend this enough.

The surrounding waters of Vancouver are full of orcas and humpback whales, and you’ll probably see sea lions and bald eagles, too. The best thing is that if you’re not lucky and don’t see any whales, you can take another tour for free. However, you will need more than one day in Vancouver (or another upcoming trip) to take another tour.

Capilano Bridge, an alternative afternoon in Vancouver

For an adrenaline-filled afternoon, check out the  Capilano suspension bridge . You can book this  self-guided tour  and spend a couple of hours taking in the gorgeous view.

The 450-foot-long hanging bridge is one of the city’s most exciting attractions, so it makes for a  perfect day in Vancouver  if you love extreme adventures. Suspended 230 feet above the ground, the bridge is the only way to get an above-canopy perspective of the forest.

You may also want to check out the Story Centre, an educational exhibition where you can learn about the First Nations people at Kai’palano and their traditional totem poles.

Grouse Mountain, the perfect winter day in Vancouver

If you love snow sports and have  one winter day in Vancouver , consider a visit to  Grouse Mountain .

Located in the North Shore Mountains of the Pacific Range, Grouse Mountain is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver and is the best winter destination for ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding.

During the warmer months it’s also quite popular with mountain bikers and hikers. There is also a popular hiking trail, the  Grouse Grind , known as “Mother Nature’s Staircase.” The two-mile trek rises 2,800 feet in elevation, so it’s quite the hike.

Of course, you could also take the Super Skyride cable car to the top of the mountain. A two-way ticket is included with  general admission  to Grouse Mountain (it also includes a shuttle from/to downtown Vancouver from mid-May to September). However, if you visit in summer, I would opt for this combo tour that also takes you to the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

For outdoor enthusiasts and snow sports lovers, Grouse Mountain is the ideal way to spend a day in Vancouver.

Sea to Sky Gondola, an alternative day in Vancouver

The  Sea to Sky Gondola  is perfect if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown (it’s a one-hour drive from the city center).

Open year-round, the gondola ascends over Howe Sound and the coastal forests of British Columbia. Not only are the views amazing, but there are several outdoor activities at the summit, so you can enjoy a  perfect day in Vancouver’s  natural beauty.

You’ll catch the gondola from Shannon Falls Provincial Park, named for British Columbia’s third-tallest waterfall, at nearly 2,000 feet. The gondola takes you up to the Summit Lodge 9,000 feet above sea level, where you can find the 330-foot-long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge that grants you panoramic views over the forest.

To make the most out of your day in Vancouver, you can take this tour, which not only includes the shuttle there, but also a guided tour around the most popular downtown attractions, such as Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.

Now you should have plenty of ideas for your next  24 hours in Vancouver ! This city has so much to offer, so if you can spend more time here, be sure to take advantage of your visit.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to help. Safe travels!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ Vancouver in One Day – The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary ”

Don’t bother with ChinaTown, the area is gross and pretty unsafe in 2023. It was dirty, smelly, hardly any open shops and there were so many drug addicts and people acting quite volatile with very little police presence. Definitely do not go after dark, it was bad enough mid afternoon. We are from Hamilton/Toronto and even we found it shocking. Toronto Chinatown is much bigger, better and safer. Don’t waste your time in Vancouver. In fact, any further up or over than the gastown steam clock in that direction from the waterfront is pretty dodgy.

Hi Jackie, Yes, someone recently told us about the bad situation in Chinatown. However, that wasn’t the situation when we visited a couple of years ago. I hope it can recover and become what it once was!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

How to Spend One Day in Vancouver: Epic 1 Day Itinerary

Doing one day in Vancouver? I want to make it the best visit possible, so here’s my promise:

Even though it’s just a one day trip I’m going to make sure you soak in the city’s epic nature, eat at the best restaurants, and live and breathe our culture and history like a local.

I was born and raised here, and this is how to visit Vancouver in one day.

Vancouver in One Day Itinerary Checklist

Before we get into how I’d craft a one day visit to Vancouver, here’s a few suggestions I want you to consider first, so you can tinker with my plans with greater autonomy:

• Read my post on things to know before visiting Vancouver to get your hand on our pulse
• Select some of the top things to do in Vancouver to lock in your own can’t miss sights
• Choose the best areas to stay in Vancouver to maximize the local experience
• Finalize the top hostels or best hotels in Vancouver to seal the deal

Again, this is about you learning enough to take my suggestions but mold them to your own tastes.

Let’s go!

How to Spend One Day in Vancouver: Morning

Learn the City’s History in Downtown Vancouver

On any normal Vancouver itinerary I’m going to recommend the Museum of Anthropology for some early education, but if you’ve only got 24 hours in Vancouver we’ve gotta get central fast.

Our 24 hour Vancouver tour starts at the Bill Reid Gallery .

Not only is this aboriginal art museum dedicated to one of the most famous artists in British Columbia history, but it’s right in the heart of the downtown Vancouver and it’s the perfect to start.

The intricate jewelry here is a sight to behold, but look up! The massive Mythic Messengers (once seen on our $20.00 bill) frieze is the highlight here, and it tells of a great Haida power struggle.

Once you’re finished the 30 minute visit, head outside and look up at the historic Hotel Vancouver. This Châteauesque-style building is arguably the most iconic in downtown Vancouver .

Head Over to Gastown

This character neighbourhood just 10 minutes’ walk from the Bill Reid Gallery was founded by pioneering loggers (lead by “Gassy Jack” Deighton) who decided to build a whiskey bar so they wouldn’t have walk back to town to drink.

Today Gastown is a bustling cultural centre full of bars, restaurants , galleries, and cafes.

The cobblestone streets and heritage architecture are a bit like Europe, and the main attraction is the Gastown Steamclock – make sure you’re standing there at any 1/4 hour for the steam whistle show.

Once you’ve taken Vancouver’s most famous selfie with the clock, head on over to the Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery for another dose of amazing local aboriginal art. It’s free to walk through, almost plays like one of Vancouver’s best museums , and has some of the city’s finest souvenirs.

From here walk down Water Street through the souvenir shops and funky furniture and shoe stores, and you’ll get to Maple Tree Square. The flatiron Hotel Europe is another great photo opportunity, and grabbing a coffee and soaking up the square is a great way to feel Vancouver vibes.

The Vancouver Lookout

While walking around Gastown you’ll probably see our 553 foot observation tower lurking over the streets. Yes, it’s a bit too 1970’s from the outside but it’s got 360° views of the city to die for.

There are very few places in the city, aside from perhaps Queen Elizabeth Park , that so succinctly capture the mountain/sea/city dynamic that makes Vancouver one of the prettiest cities in the world.

I’m recommending the Vancouver Lookout for people who want to keep the mileage low.

If you’re seeing Vancouver in one day keeping things tight should be rule #1 – though if you want the real best panoramic view and are willing to travel a bit I’ll be sharing it later in this post.

Stanley Park

You wouldn’t dream of missing North America’s highest rated urban park. From any point in Gastown you can head back to the car, or better yet grab a Mobi bike share and ride the famous Seawall to get there.

When you enter Stanley Park , you’re treated to an amazing view of the city skyline and the sails of Canada Place as the road curls around the peninsula and takes you to the nine Stanley Park Totem Poles , public art like Lady in a Wetsuit , and even the Vancouver Aquarium .

Driving? Take the Prospect Point exit for an amazing panoramic view of the harbour entrance, including epic views of the Lions Gate Bridge.

Those riding a bike will love Siwash Rock , the most famous rock formation in the city that almost looks like an outcropping on the coast of Italy, if way smaller.

Related : Stanley Park Guided Tours

24 Hours in Vancouver: Afternoon

Granville island.

The Stanley Park Seawall spits out both cars and bike riders to English Bay in Vancouver’s West End – in Vancouver in summer it’s highly recommended to go for a swim as you’ll find some of Vancouver’s best beaches here.

That said, we know Vancouver weather isn’t all that cooperative so we’ve got better, tastier plans that are just 10 minutes away.

Taking in Granville Island is a must for anybody wanting to visit Vancouver. All the great city artisans, distillers, sculptors, clothing makers, and even fisherman share this space to ply their trade.

The star of the show here is the Granville Island Public Market, with its local fresh produce and food court which is an automatic lunch stop. Don’t leave without getting double smoked salmon sticks or candied maple salmon at Longliner Seafoods .

Other tourism automatics include Nanaimo bars (a local delicacy with chocolate, custard, and coconut) at Laurelle’s Fine Foods and the artisan masters at Lee’s Donuts .

Grouse Mountain

Assuming you skipped the Vancouver Lookout, heading to the North Shore Mountains and getting up (actually, way up) the mountains to our city’s outdoor playground is an amazing option.

Grouse Mountain at its very least offers an incredible bird’s eye panorama of the city.

Taking the gondola up is the best way to see the interaction between the mountains below your feet, the sparkling blue harbour and Stanley Park to your right, and the sprawling city to the left.

Beyond this, there are all sorts of things to do here: having a drink on the terrace at Peak Chalet, visiting with the grizzly bears Grinder and Coola, zip-lining, the Mountain Ropes Adventure and more.

This North Vancouver attraction is also home to many of the top things to do in winter in Vancouver – including skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, and more.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

It has been city heavy so a bit of nature really fits here, in the form of this fabulous swing bridge strung 230 feet above the Capilano River – a walk across it is like floating through a West Coast rain forest, with the odd sway that almost turns it into an amusement park ride.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge itself is not only a unique tourist experience, but is home to the world’s largest private collection of totem poles, and counts two additional attractions:

• Treetops Adventure : 7 suspension bridges connecting eight 300 year old Douglas Fir trees for an eagle eye view of the forest floor 110 feet below
• Cliff Walk : 20 inch wide platforms jolting out from the side of a giant granite rock, placing guests eye to eye with old growth forest tree tops – with a scary glass bottom portion included.

There’s also a great gift shop and there’s even a great historical sightseeing tour of the park.

Vancouver in One Day: Evening

Happy Hour in Yaletown

Vancouver’s most fashionable district may be a bit too yuppy for some people’s tastes, but the fact is that quality reigns supreme here – even if it tends to cost a bit of money.

That said, during happy hour this is the best place to search Vancouver for amazing drink and snack deals.

Seafood lovers should mark Rodney’s Oyster House down. Their six oysters and a drink for $18 is one of the best deals in the city – especially since the oysters come from the area’s top growing bays.

If you’re leaning more towards drinks (with a few Italian appetizers like meatballs thrown in) then Yaletown Distillery is a great deal – their $5 highballs using their craft liquor is a great evening start.

An Amazing Vancouver Dinner

Vancouver is a foodie city – and there’s just so many ways to go here.

Since you’re in Yaletown I’m going to recommend selecting any of the best restaurants in downtown Vancouver or even head back to some of the best restaurants in Gastown .

Vancouver is a sushi-mad city and the average quality is super high. Whether you’re looking to make an experience out of it trying epic aburi (flame-seared) sushi at Miku Waterfront , or you’re content heading to a hole in the wall that churns out affordable gourmet sushi at Tom Sushi you’re in good hands.

We also can’t ignore the city’s massive Chinese influence. Heading to some of the top restaurants in Chinatown is no mistake either – and budget food lovers should pay particular attention to the super-authentic, lip-smacking meats at Chinatown BBQ .

Evening Drinks

I’m making a massive assumption that you’re going to be up for it – but let’s do it anyway. Most of Vancouver’s best bars are found either downtown, or at most a quick 15 minute taxi ride.

If you’re eating in Chinatown then one of the city’s best cocktail bars Keefer Bar is found right there.

Lovers of craft beer in Vancouver will fall in love with the variety at CRAFT Beer Market – which comes with a harbour view to die for.

I’m not forgetting about wine lovers either – TWB (The Wine Bar) in Yaletown has probably the best list in the city.

Finally, if you’re looking to do a bit of a crawl in an area full of bars that offers a different neighbourhood dynamic, then heading to Commercial Drive (Vancouver’s Little Italy, but with an independent flair) is the best bet.

Big on beer? Check out the best brewery tours in Vancouver .

Vancouver in One Day FAQ

How can i spend a day in vancouver.

To spend a day in Vancouver, you should plan museums like the Vancouver Art Gallery, parks, Robson Street, cafes, restaurants, and even outdoor activities like the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

I recommend following my 24 hour Vancouver itinerary above to get a greater idea of how to spend one day in Vancouver.

What to do in Vancouver for 5 hours?

In five hours in Vancouver you should explore Stanley Park, visit Granville Island, or stroll along the waterfront.

How can I spend 24 hours in Vancouver BC?

For 24 hours in Vancouver BC you should stroll along the waterfront, see Granville Island, Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Robson Street.

Can you do a day trip to Vancouver?

Yes, you can do a day trip to Vancouver since most of the attractions are within a 20 minute radius around downtown.

What to do in one day in Vancouver?

In one day in Vancouver you should do Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, and Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Is one day in Vancouver enough?

No, one day in Vancouver is not enough – staying for 24 hours offers a taste, but longer stays allow deeper exploration.

Taking a One Day Trip to Vancouver?

If something isn’t quite clear on my post on how to spend 1 day in Vancouver, make sure you get at me.

This isn’t just a Vancouver travel website that I want to sit and rot – I want it to come alive with questions, comments, compliments (insults?) and anything else on your mind.

Looking forward to hearing from you 🙂

Be aware : some of the links provided above are affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase. The revenue helps maintain our site as a community-supported and ad-free platform. More info: Vancouver Planner affiliate disclaimer .

I've lived in 5 countries and created content for travel websites like eDreams and Amex Essentials, but here I finally get to work my passion project - my hometown, Vancouver!

Related posts

Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Areas to Stay

3 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

Vancouver in April: Top Events & Things to Do in 2024

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

One day in Vancouver itinerary (3 samples + map for 2024)

Love it? Share it!

Looking for the perfect one day in Vancouver itinerary? We’ve got you covered. Vancouver is a coastal city in southwestern British Columbia and is consistently named as one of the top five worldwide cities for livability and quality of life. 

The scenic beauty of Vancouver’s location between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean is undeniable. With its abundant parks, green space, and outdoor activities, Vancouver is an ideal place to live and visit. 

Add in a thriving arts and cultural scene, and it’s easy to see why Vancouver is one of Canada’s most popular destinations; hence, deciding how to spend the perfect 24 hours there is not an easy feat, and its hard not to see why.

One Day in Vancouver itinerary: Explore Vancouver in a day

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Things to do in Vancouver in a day: One day in Vancouver itinerary

• Breakfast at the Templeton, Granville Island
• Head to Stanley Park
• Viist Vancouver Aquarium
• Hang out at the Granville Island
• Wander Chinatown and visit Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Classical Chinese Garden
• Soak in the views from Vancouver Lookout
• Check off the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Grab dinner and drinks in Gastown

Alternate Vancouver one day itinerary (Downtown Vancouver Attractions) 

• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery
• Canada Place and FlyOver Canada
• Seaplane ride over the city 
• Enjoy lunch by the waterfront and walk to Stanley Park
• Stop and take a picture at the Gastown Steam Clock
• Walk to Robson Street and shop
• Vancouver Lookout for views and Happy Hour
• Granville Island for dinner 

Read : Vancouver bucket list | Visiting Vancouver in winter

Before we begin, we would like to remind you that with just one day in Vancouver, you will have to do a lot of walking, with the occasional Uber or bus ride, to save precious minutes of your travel time.

An alternate option is to ride the hop-on and hop-off bus and then get down at your favorite spots. On our first trip to Vancouver, this is precisely what we did, and it just made navigation easier.

Living in Alberta, we now travel to Vancouver often and keep adding to our sightseeing experiences in BC. 

Vancouver has a good and appealing transport system in Vancouver Translink in which fares are valid for 90 minutes so that one can get across parts of the town without paying double.

Moreover, the city is built on a grid system which makes navigation very easy.

You can also use public transportation or book a private transfer to get downtown from YVR Airport.

Of course, there will be several breaks for food and shopping to slow down the pace and rest your weary legs. So, without any further ado, let’s get going.

1. Start at The Templeton for breakfast (08:30 to 09:30 am)

There is no better way to begin your one-day Vancouver itinerary than with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the morning.

The highly recommended Templeton has a prime location in Granville Row, close to many popular attractions. This outlet is known for its friendly service and extensive breakfast spreads such as the Big Ass Breakfast ($15.99) or the Farmers Breakfast ($12.99).

• Address: The Templeton, 1087 Granville St
• Hours : Opens at 8:30 am

2. Head to Stanley Park (09:30 to 11:00 am)

Take the Skytrain from Granville station ($3), bringing you to Stanley Park in about four minutes.

Exploring this vast urban park will take up an entire day on foot, so consider renting a bike to cycle around the Stanley Park Seawall , a picturesque 5.5 km loop trail.

Some exciting spots you will pass by are Prospect Point (excellent for photos of the harbor and the lighthouse) and English Bay, a family-friendly beach further down. 

Finally, you will reach the most unmissable attraction, the First Nations Totem Poles, which give an insight into the history of the Salish tribes who resided here for centuries. 

While admission to the park is free, expect to shell out as much as $30 per hour for renting a bike.

3. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium (11:00 to 11:45 am)

Whether you ride the Seawall or not, you must visit the 9000 sq m Vancouver Aquarium inside the park to see the diverse range of marine life.

Make sure to visit Penguin Point to see the penguins and Treasures of the BC Coast for spotting sea urchins and octopuses, among others.

There is an impressive Amazon Rainforest section where you can spot the various rainforest creatures as if they were in their natural habitat. Spend at least an hour here before moving on.

• Address : 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
• Hours : 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission: CAD 37.95 – CAD 49.95 (Tickets are timed, and prices vary day to day. You should plan to lock in a particular price for your visit date)

4. Hang out at the Granville Island (12:00 to 3:00 pm)

A three-minute ride by taxi ($10) will bring you to Granville Island, a place with a laid-back vibe and the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown Vancouver.

The island is full of quaint bars, restaurants, specialty shops, and stalls selling some of the freshest produce possible at Granville Island Public Market.

For lunch, head to the Granville Island Brewing Company for something to munch on and sample as many as ten different brews on their beer flights.

Since you are already in Granville, hop on for a tour on the zodiac boat for the ultimate waterfront sightseeing tour. This 1.5-hour trip (CAD 75) will provide great views of the Vancouver city skyline, Coal Harbor, False Creek, and other important landmarks. 

Look for the seals and dolphins you will encounter near the coast.

You might like this tour : Guided market walking tour of Granville Island

5. Wander the Chinatown of Vancouver (3:00 to 4:00 pm)

It will take about 40 minutes to walk from Granville Island to Chinatown, but since time constraints are in place, just take a cab to drop you off via Burrard St in about five minutes ($10). 

With a large Asian population, there is always something buzzing in Chinatown, and it is a must-visit place on your one day itinerary to Vancouver.

One of the first things you see here will be the Millennium Gate, flanked by stone lions on either side. There are various shops here where you can buy a souvenir or two, but you must check out the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden. 

There is an admission fee of $70, but it is worth it as the grounds are full of pagodas, plants, and koi ponds. The gardens are open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Monday, and Tuesday closed).

• Address : 578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2
• Hours : 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Admission: CAD 70

6. Soak in views from the Vancouver Lookout (04:00 to 5:00 pm)

Next, head to the Vancouver Lookout for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. This 553-foot observation deck sits on the 55th floor of the Harbor Center building and is within walking distance of Chinatown.

But did you know that besides being a popular tourist attraction during the day, it also offers an unbeatable experience during sunset?

Time your visit to see the stunning sunset views of the North Shore Mountains. If you are lucky, you can glimpse Vancouver Island off the Pacific coast. 

• Address : 555, W Hastings St
• Hours : Daily 9:00 am – 9:00 pm (Oct-May) | 8.30 am to 10:30 pm (June-Sep)
• Admission: Adults: CAD 13.50 | Child: CAD 9.60

Note that tickets for the lookout are valid for multiple entries for the day of issue. Visitors should use this to re-enter when the views are good or to see the sunset.

7. Check off the Capilano Suspension Bridge (5:00 to 7:00 pm)

After descending from the lookout, head northwest through Seymour St and past Marine Dr by cab to reach the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park .

You can spend a whole day here easily, but two hours is the minimum, we recommend. 

If you are an adrenaline junkie, this 450′ long Capilano Suspension Bridge is ideal for extreme adventures and an excellent way to get a canopy view of the forest below through the thrilling Cliffwalk. 

While you are there, check out the Story Center to learn about the First Nations tribes and their traditional totem poles.

• Address : 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
• Hours : Daily: 9:00 am-7:00 pm (hours subject to change)
• Admission: Online rates are $3 cheaper. Book it here
• Adults (18-64): $ 62.95 CAD | Senior 65+:    $57.95 CAD | Student: $49.95 CAD | Child (6-17): $24.95 CAD

You might like this combo ticket : Floatplane and Capilano Suspension Bridge tickets

8. Grab dinner and drinks in Gastown (after 07:30 pm)

Head back from the bridge park via the lookout to the Gastown neighborhood, one of the most lively spots in Vancouver and an ideal place to chill for a couple of hours. 

After taking selfies at the iconic Gastown Steam Clock, grab a table at Guilt&Co for a well-earned cocktail and live music.

You might like this tour: Lost Souls of Gastown walking tour (2 hours)

Gastown is full of vibrant cafes, clubs, and restaurants and is a fun place after dark.

You can go bar-hopping here but must stop at the Royal Dinette to enjoy a drink served by an award-winning bartender of the world, Kaitlyn Stewart. Or just chill out with an ice cream.

Since certain parts overlap with Chinatown, this is always a happening place.

Vancouver one day itinerary sightseeing maps

Alternate One day Vancouver itinerary (in and around Vancouver downtown)

Here is an alternate one-day in Vancouver itinerary focused on downtown attractions. This is perfect if you are visiting Vancouver for consulate or visa purposes (which we often have from Saskatoon and Edmonton to get a Schengen visa, a long visa for Portugal, etc.). 

From the Vancouver International Airport, ride the SkyTrain and arrive at the Vancouver City Centre station. 

1. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery is just a few steps from the City Centre train station and a must-visit destination for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, this iconic gallery showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and historical art from around the world.

Founded in 1931, the Vancouver City Art Gallery has been a hub for artistic expression and education for almost a century. During a strike, unemployed protesters occupied the gallery building in the 1930s, but they didn’t damage the paintings and other exhibits inside. 

The gallery’s permanent collection includes over 11,000 artworks, from paintings and sculptures to photographs and installations. They also host annual temporary exhibitions featuring works by established and emerging artists. 

The architecture of the Vancouver City Art Gallery is also a sight to behold. Renowned architect Arthur Erickson designed the iconic building with a unique mix of modernist and brutalist elements. Its grand and spacious galleries provide the perfect backdrop for displaying art, creating a memorable experience for visitors.

After exploring the gallery, stop by the 1931 Gallery Bistro for a bite to eat or visit the Gallery Store to take home a piece of art-inspired merchandise. Don’t forget to snap a photo before “The Lions,” two iconic lion statues at the gallery entrance, symbolizing the city’s strength and pride in its artistic community.

• Address : 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7
• Hours : Saturday to Monday, Wednesday 10:00 am-5:00 pm, Tuesdays closed. Thursday and Friday 10:00 am-08:00 pm
• Admission: CAD 18 to 24 adult

2. Canada Place and FlyOver Canada

One of the most famous sights of Vancouver is the distinctive sails of Canada Place, home to two convention centers of the city, as well as the cruise ship and seaplane terminals, the Olympic Cauldron, and the FlyOver Canada attraction.

It is an iconic landmark in the coastal seaport city of Vancouver, British Columbia. You can also take in surreal views of the North Shore Mountains, Lions Gate Bridge, and the busy port of Vancouver.

The structure was built in 1986 for the Expo ’86 World Fair and has become one of Canada’s most recognizable and visited landmarks. 

The design of Canada Place was inspired by Canadian heritage and features a distinctive white sail-like roof that stretches over five acres. It serves as a symbol of the country’s maritime history and its significance as a trade hub.

You must visit the place for a quick 20-minute FlyOver experience – a virtual flight that takes you on a breathtaking journey through Canada’s most iconic landscapes.

The building complex also houses the Pan Pacific Hotel, which provides luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the city skyline and harbor. 

3. Seaplane ride over the city 

Head out of Canada Place and wander by the waterfront – soak in the views or pose for a photo! 

From the waterfront, visit the Harbour Airport. To get a different perspective of Vancouver, opt for a seaplane tour that departs from the seaplane terminal near Stanley Park for a 20-minute loop ride over the city. 

Apart from breathtaking views of the city and Canada Place, you will also catch a good glimpse of the North Shore Mountains before landing at the Vancouver Convention Center. 

If you are wondering about a unique activity in Vancouver, this is it.

Price : $500 for up to two. Book it here

4. Enjoy lunch by the waterfront and walk to the Stanley Park

Vancouver has a beautiful waterfront where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Many restaurants serve fresh seafood and offer stunning views of the ocean. You can also stroll along the seawall, one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions.

Vancouver is known for its diverse food scene, and lunch by the waterfront is no exception. You can choose from various cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, and the famous West Coast seafood. 

Aside from delicious food, lunch by the waterfront also offers incredible views of the city’s skyline and mountains. The ocean breeze and scenic landscape create a perfect ambiance for a relaxing meal. Many restaurants have outdoor seating options, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the waterfront while enjoying your dinner.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the seawall. The seawall is an uninterrupted 28-kilometer (17.39 miles) path around Vancouver’s coastline. It offers breathtaking ocean views, parks, and iconic landmarks such as the Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park. 

You can also rent a bike and explore the seawall at your own pace.

5. Stop and take a picture at the Gastown Steam Clock

Next, wander around and head to the Gastown Steam Clock. It is a popular tourist attraction in Vancouver, located at the corner of Cambie and Water Street in the historic Gastown neighborhood.

The historic Steam Clock was built in 1977 by Raymond Saunders, an eccentric horologist (clockmaker) who combined his love for steam engines and clocks to create this unique timepiece. Initially built to cover up a steam vent used for the city’s underground heating system, it quickly became a beloved landmark.

Visiting the Gastown Steam Clock is free and open to the public. It is a popular photo stop; people usually crowd around the structure, waiting for its hourly whistle. 

You may like this tour: Gastown foodie walking tour

6. Walk to Robson Street and shop

If you’re a shopaholic, Vancouver’s Robson Street is your place! This bustling street in downtown Vancouver is home to some of the best shopping experiences in Canada. 

With big-name brands like Burberry, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, you can find the latest styles and trends on this street. And remember to stop by Holt Renfrew, one of Canada’s most iconic department stores. My favorite store is Lululemon, and I love to shop there!

For a more unique and personalized shopping experience, Robson Street also offers a variety of locally owned boutiques. These small shops feature handcrafted items from local designers, showcasing Vancouver’s vibrant arts and culture scene. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts in these charming stores.

Besides shopping, you will love to wander around as the street is lined with beautiful trees and flower baskets, making for a picturesque stroll while you shop. Plus, the energy of the street is contagious, with musicians and performers often adding to the lively atmosphere.

7. Vancouver Lookout for views and Happy Hour

Watching the sunset from the Vancouver Lookout is a must-do activity for locals and tourists alike. As the sun dips below the mountains, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink, you’ll witness a magical transformation of the cityscape. 

Ride up the glass elevator of this 553-foot observation deck to take 360 ° views of the surrounding areas.

But the Vancouver Lookout is about more than just the views. You can sip on handcrafted cocktails during Happy Hours while enjoying the city’s stunning sights as the sun sets in the background.

From 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily (served till 04:15 pm), you can get discounted drinks and appetizers at the Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant. 

8. Granville Island for dinner 

After a long day of sightseeing, you’ll need to refuel and relax. Head to the Granville Island for some dinner. Here, you will find plenty of options for dining and unwinding. 

From upscale restaurants to trendy cafes, there’s something for every taste bud. You can indulge in fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and other delectable dishes while watching the night lights come to life.

Whale watching – a perfect alternative

Vancouver is considered a prime destination for watching whales in British Columbia. 

If whale watching is on your bucket list, plan to spend 5+ hours on your Vancouver itinerary.

On a day tour, you can see the resident orcas swimming in their natural habitat against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains in the distance. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There are different types of tours, but the orca tour from Granville Island is the most convenient. Your second tour is free if you don’t spot one by chance.

• Price: CAD 180+. Book it here
• Duration: 5 hours

Read : 3 days in Vancouver itinerary

Vancouver layover Itinerary (less than 24 hours): Things to do in Vancouver by night 

Vancouver International Airport is a popular hub for West Coast flyers from the Prairies of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the NWT. 

We stop in Vancouver or Toronto whenever we fly to India, New York City, or Europe. If you are on a layover in the city or want to enjoy yourself till the wee hours of your only night in Vancouver, then you may consider the following activities:

Sunset Dinner Cruises

Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner cruise , where you can savor a delectable meal while captivated by breathtaking views of Vancouver’s skyline and the shimmering waters. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance as the sun sets and paints the sky with vibrant hues.

3-Hour Bowen Island Boat Cruise with Dinner

Join a delightful 3-hour Bowen Island boat cruise with dinner, where you can revel in the scenic beauty of the surrounding islands and coastline. Feast on a sumptuous meal while cruising along the crystal-clear waters, creating unforgettable memories.

Bowen Island can also be explored on a day trip (more details below).

Watch a movie at the 1930s Rio Theatre

Step back in time and relish the nostalgic charm of the 1930s Rio Theatre while watching a captivating movie. Immerse yourself in this historic venue’s unique ambiance and architectural beauty, adding a touch of magic to your cinematic experience.

Outdoor movies at Stanley Park during the summers

During the summer, delight in the outdoor movies held at Stanley Park. Set against the backdrop of nature’s beauty, enjoy a cinematic adventure under the stars, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the park.

Night skiing during winter

Embrace the thrill of night skiing during the winter season. For this activity, you must get to Cypress or Grouse Mountain from Vancouver, so we only recommend this if you have additional time on your layover.

You can experience skiing under the starry sky and see the Vancity lights on a clear day. 

Live music performances at the Commodore Ballroom or Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Book a live music show at renowned venues such as the Commodore Ballroom or Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver at night. 

Richmond Night Market, a busy summer food market

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of the Richmond Night Market, a popular summer food market offering an array of delicious culinary delights from diverse cultures. 

Go partying on Granville Island

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Granville Island by partying and exploring its lively atmosphere. You will find a plethora of bars, pubs, and clubs where you can dance the night away and make unforgettable memories with friends.

Watch a soccer game at BC Place

Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of a soccer game at BC Place. Feel the crowd’s energy, cheer for your favorite team, and witness the passion and excitement of the beautiful game in this iconic stadium.

Visit the weekend night market at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver

Discover the vibrant weekend night market at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. This bustling market welcomes you to a world of sights, sounds, and flavors as you explore the stalls, indulge in delectable street food, and uncover unique treasures crafted by local artisans.

Day trips from Vancouver, BC

If you extend your itinerary beyond a day in Vancouver, you may add one or more of the following day trips. Some of these places can be added as a half-day tour from Vancity as well, and we suggest opting for a guided excursion in such a case – a seaplane ride to Victoria from Vancouver and back will be the perfect example. 

Here are some of our favorite day trips that are easily accessible from Vancouver

1. Grouse Mountain 

Head to north Vancouver, and once there, take a left from Capilano Rd till you reach the base of the Grouse Mountain. Take the Red Skyride up to the top for views worthy of travel guides. 

There is plenty to do here as a Grouse Mountain visit is a half-day activity. Popular activities include skiing, zip lining, and hiking. Not into outdoor activities, enjoy a gondola for stunning views of the city and surrounding areas and activities like skiing, zip lining, and hiking.

Ensure you visit the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife to see the grizzly bears. If you feel your belly rumbling, grab a bite from the street cafes or choose an acceptable dining outlet.

• Admission: Get tickets here
• Adult (18-64). $69.00 CAD | Senior 65+.CAD 59.00 | Youth (13-17).  $49.00 CAD | Child (5-12). $36.00 CAD | Family (2+2) $179.00 CAD
• Hours : Open from 9:00 am to 9:30 pm

2. Victoria

Consider taking a ferry to Victoria on Vancouver Island for a more extended day trip. This historic capital city boasts Victorian architecture, charming gardens, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Take advantage of top attractions like Butchart Gardens, the Royal BC Museum, and Craigdarroch Castle.

When short on time, consider this seaplane tour that includes round-trip transportation .

Victoria Harbour Airport is located right at the centre. You can easily walk to attractions such as the Fairmont Express Hotel (for afternoon tea) and Royal BC Museum, take a water taxi to Fisherman’s Wharf and then take a whale watching tour. 

If you prefer a complete day tour, here is a good option that includes round-trip bus and ferry tickets with a local guide below.

Read: One day in Victoria itinerary

3. Whistler

Located about a two-hour drive from Vancouver, Whistler is known for its world-class ski resorts and stunning mountain views. However, even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, Whistler has plenty to offer year-round. 

In Whistler in summer , you can take advantage of activities like hiking, biking, and ziplining. And no matter what season you visit, take advantage of the picturesque Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride, which offers panoramic views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. 

You can also set aside time for 1-2 hour hikes in and around Whistler town. Our favorite one is the Whistler Train Wreck Trail . And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can try mountain biking. 

Whistler Village is filled with cute cafes and amazing restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a bite after a day of outdoor adventures. 

Book: Book this day tour from Vancouver to Whistler

4. Squamish 

Just north of Vancouver lies the charming town of Squamish. This outdoor lover’s paradise is a perfect day trip destination for those exploring nature. Some popular activities in Squamish include hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. 

For a unique experience, ride the ten-minute scenic Sea to Sky Gondola to the Summit Lodge and soak in spectacular views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.

5. Bowen Island

For a more low-key day trip, head to Bowen Island, just a short ferry ride from Vancouver. This quaint island is known for its picturesque harbors, quiet beaches, and charming cafes. 

The outdoors offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts. You can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy leisurely walks, or embark on thrilling road and mountain biking adventures. Take to the water with kayaking and paddleboarding, or indulge in a refreshing swim. 

You can participate in yoga sessions on the pier during the summer, stroll along the boardwalk at Snug Cove, or hike up to Dorman Point for stunning views of Howe Sound.

6. Golden Ears Provincial Park

For an off-the-beaten-path day trip, head out to Golden Ears Provincial Park. This beautiful park is one of the largest in the province, and it takes about an hour to get there by car. 

The park offers hiking trails for all levels, stunning waterfalls, and camping options for staying overnight. It’s the perfect place to disconnect and recharge in the great outdoors.

Where to stay for a day in Vancouver?

Choosing the right neighborhood within your budget can be daunting because each place has charm. You can, however, get a reasonable idea by studying these best places to drop dead for one night in Vancouver:

• English Bay: Waterfront location
• Downtown: In the heart of the actions (aka attractions)
• Davie Village: LGBTQ+ community
• Granville Island: Foodie destination 
• Kitsilano: Beach hotels 

Some hotels you can consider are:

• Moda Hotel (under $300): This hotel is located on Seymour Street, an excellent location. The staff is also helpful, and the rooms have all modern amenities. Check availability here .
• Samesun Vancouver ($50-$150 with complimentary breakfast and WiFi): Samesun Vancouver is centrally located near the Skytrain station and is hardly a fifteen-minute walk from BC Place Stadium. The property is surrounded by clubs, shops, and restaurants, which makes the hotel atmosphere very colorful. Book your stay here .
• The Cambie ($80+ free WiFi): A typical backpacker’s hostel, The Cambie is situated bang in the middle of Gastown in a bit old and shoddy heritage building—a well-priced hostel enjoying an excellent location. Rooms are basic, with bunk beds and shared bathrooms, but since Vancouver is a costly city, the place is okay for just a night’s stay. Click to view photos and room options .

Read: The best Airbnbs in Vancouver for an epic stay

Additional Vancouver travel tips

Vancouver is a beautiful and multicultural city. The city also offers a great selection of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, Vancouver has something for everyone.

When visiting Vancouver, pack your rain gear, as the city experiences a lot of rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is warm and dry. 

If you want to save money on accommodations, consider staying in one of the city’s many hostels or Airbnbs. Stay around Burrard or Robson Street for standard accommodation. For a tight budget, stay in the West End.

Vancouver is a safe city with very low incidents of violent crime. However, if you leave any item unattended, even for a minute, it is likely to get stolen. Car breaking is also frequent, so keep all valuables in the car. Plus, be sure to take precautions when walking around at night. 

Vancouver is tiny, and from one corner to another takes forty minutes by walk. This means everything is within 20 minutes of the city center.

Plan to leave aside 120 CAD per day on your one-day vacation to Vancouver. This assumes you are staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, using public transport, and limiting your drinking. 

On a mid-range budget of 240 CAD, you can stay in Airbnb, eat out at fast food places, hire the occasional taxi, go whale watching, or ride the gondola. 

There are over 550 free VanWifi spots in the city, so enjoy free internet and save on roaming charges.

What’s the best month to visit Vancouver?

Vancouver is a popular tourist destination in Canada, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life. While each season has its unique charm, certain months offer the best experience to visitors.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is a great time to visit Vancouver as the city comes alive with colorful flowers and festivals. The weather during this season is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing. 

Some must-visit places during spring include the famous Cherry Blossom Festival at Queen Elizabeth Park, the Vancouver International Children’s Festival, and the Abbotsford Tulip Festival.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is peak tourist season in Vancouver, with warm and sunny days making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Temperatures during this time range from 20-25 degrees Celsius, perfect for spending a day at the beach or exploring Stanley Park. 

The city also hosts several summer festivals, including the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and the Celebration of Light fireworks competition.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Vancouver as the city’s landscape transforms into a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow hues. The weather during this season is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius. 

You can enjoy scenic drives along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, a whale watching tour, or hikes in and around the city.

Winter (December – February)

While Vancouver is known for its mild climate, winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall. This makes it an ideal time for skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Whistler Blackcomb ski resort.

The city hosts several holiday events, including the Vancouver Christmas Market and the Bright Nights Christmas Train in Stanley Park.

Which is the best month to visit Vancouver? The answer depends on what you want to experience. If you’re a nature lover, spring or fall would be ideal for beautiful blooms and colorful foliage. For outdoor activities and festivals, summer would be a great choice.

Check seasonal events on the tourism site here

What is the best way to explore Vancouver?

The best way to explore Vancouver is by walking and using public transportation as you plan your one-day itinerary.

• Walk or bike: One of the best ways to explore Vancouver is on foot or by bicycle. The city is known for its walkability and bike-friendly infrastructure, making it easy and enjoyable to get around on two feet or wheels. You can stroll along the seawall, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains, or rent a bike and explore the various neighborhoods and parks at your own pace.
• Use public transportation: Vancouver also has a reliable and efficient public transportation system if you prefer to avoid walking or biking. The SkyTrain, bus, and ferry services can take you to all the main attractions and landmarks in the city. You can purchase single fares or opt for a day pass if you use public transportation frequently.
• Take a guided tour: To get a more in-depth and informative experience, consider taking a guided tour of Vancouver. Various options are available, from walking to bus and even boat tours. This is what we did when we first explored Vancouver in 2017. 

A car is not required to explore Vancouver, and avoiding it for a short trip is best. If needed, hail an Uber to get around.

How many days in Vancouver is enough? Is one day in Vancouver enough?

One day is great for exploring the prime downtown attractions in Vancouver. For a well-rounded experience, spend at least 2 to 3 days in the beautiful coastal city of British Columbia. This will allow you to explore downtown museums and shopping hit popular restaurants, and then set aside a day for hikes and walks in and around the city. 

To make the most of your trip, consider your interests. If you are a nature lover, you should spend extra days exploring the city’s many parks and outdoor spaces. On the other hand, if you’re more of a city person, you may prefer to focus on Vancouver’s urban attractions, such as museums and restaurants.

In addition, the time of year can also affect how many days you should spend in Vancouver. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique activities and events. For example, if you’re visiting during summer, you may want to take advantage of the warmer weather and spend more time outdoors.

Another critical factor to consider is your budget. Vancouver can be expensive, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. If you have a limited budget, you should spend fewer days in the city and focus on more affordable activities.

On the other hand, if your budget allows, you can extend your stay and splurge on some of Vancouver’s luxurious experiences.

We hope these itineraries have increased your admiration for Vancouver. While spending just one day barely does enough justice to this beautiful city, at least it is a teaser.

Read other British Columbia travel guides:

• Mount Seymour in winter
• Yoho National Park Itinerary
• Things to do in Golden BC

Pin: Vancouver 1 day itinerary with sightseeing map

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

Similar Posts

Calgary to Golden Road Trip Itinerary (+Transportation Options)

Planning to travel from Calgary to Golden British Columbia and turn it into an awesome drive? We got you covered! In this detailed guide, we will share all the possible transportation options between these two destinations, and also check off many of the cool spots along the way. So here is an awesome Calgary to…

Canada Itinerary: How to see Canada in 7 days to 2 weeks

Canada is the second-largest country in the world and is home to some of the most beautiful places on earth. From Toronto’s vibrant city life, Quebec City’s European charm, Prairie’s vastness, Canadian Rockies majestic beauty, rainforests lush greenery, and fjords picturesque views – there are so many reasons to explore the Great White North! In…

Planning the PERFECT Vancouver to Victoria day trip

Planning a Vancouver to Victoria day trip itinerary? You are at the right place! In this detailed post, we will share all the transportation options to get from Vancouver to Victoria and sightseeing in both cities. Vancouver and Victoria are both Canadian cities, located in the western part of the country – in the province…

Perfect One Day in Victoria BC Itinerary

Victoria is a beautiful city located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. With its stunning scenery, mild climate, and abundance of things to do, it’s no wonder Victoria is a popular tourist destination. In this guide, we will share an epic one day in Victoria BC itinerary to make the most of your visit….

Sunflower Fields Edmonton Corn Maze Guide

Wondering where to find sunflower fields in Edmonton for that epic Instagrammable shot? Look no further than the farm at Edmonton Corn Maze, located about 20 minutes outside of the capital city of Alberta.  In this post, we will share details about visiting the attraction, other activities, sunflower photography tips, and more. So keep reading!…

10+ Best Charlottetown Coffee Shops

Welcome to Charlottetown, the capital city of Prince Edward Island! From cozy cafes serving up freshly roasted coffees and teas, to warm breakfast spots offering delicious dishes and snacks, these are the best Charlottetown coffee shops to hang out in!   The bustling city of Charlottetown is not only known for its lobsters and seafood but…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home » Destinations » North America » Canada » How to Spend One Day in Vancouver, BC: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend One Day in Vancouver, BC: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here .

Only Have One Day in Vancouver? Here’s How You Might Plan It!

If you’ve only got one day in Vancouver, BC – this is the guide for you. Whether you’re staying overnight or you’re on a day trip to Vancouver (perhaps a layover or from Victoria or Seattle), there’s plenty to do, eat, see, and drink to keep you busy!

24 hours in Vancouver is definitely not enough time to absorb all the Canadian sights this incredible city offers. That said, you can cover quite a bit of ground if you plan it right. That’s where we come in!

We spent a few weeks in Vancouver while on our West Coast trip and really fell in love with the city. Eric had been to Vancouver before – but it was Lisa’s first time! We also had both family and local friends tell us about attractions and local things to check out while exploring.

So, this guide covers exactly that: places to visit for a whole day in Vancouver. From breakfast options to evening activities, this itinerary covers what to do in Vancouver for a day!

Vancouver, BC Tours

Being a popular destination, there are plenty of amazing tours to help you discover the city from all different angles. From bike tours to foodie tours – and tours that take to the sky in a seaplane – check out these Vancouver tour options for yourself!

• Classic Seaplane Tour Over Vancouver
• 5-Hour Vancouver Sights Guided Bike Tour
• Gastown Walking Foodie Tour
• Vancouver Harbour Boat Adventure

Table of Contents

Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.

Address: 1137 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y3

To start off your 1 day in Vancouver right, you’ll need a solid breakfast. For this, we loved our breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co . Located close to Yaletown – looking over the boats and water of False Creek – OEB is a popular name around the city. 

They get pretty busy on weekends (with an extensive waitlist) so we went right at 8:00 am on a weekday and walked right in to get a table. 

The staff were super friendly and the place was very welcoming – travellers, business people, families, everyone was there! 

They serve drip coffee in really big mugs – so if you’re a coffee fan it’s a pretty good size. For food, Lisa ordered Eggs Florentine and Eric had the classic breakfast which comes with eggs and meat. 

Their potatoes (which are like wedges) are cooked in duck fat which is really tasty. That said, you can order the potatoes as a vegan version. 

Overall, everything was really good! Notably, the service was very efficient – you can tell that they’ve got their act together. Probably necessary when you’re so busy.

If you know you want to go, you can try to get a reservation or waitlist spot in advance. Otherwise, go early enough to walk in as we did.

Depending on where you are staying, there are other places for breakfast. We also really like Greenhorn Cafe tucked away in a quiet area in the West End. The Templeton is a more retro-chic diner between downtown and Yaletown, while Cafe Medina is an upscale-chic brunch place right in the centre of Downtown Vancouver.

Getting Around Vancouver, BC Vancouver has a number of different areas. As a day visitor, you’ll only really need Downtown, West End, and the surrounding areas/neighbourhoods around False Creek, etc. to visit sights and attractions. The city centre is quite walkable in parts and a touch more hilly in parts. Any areas close to the shoreline are flatter. The whole of downtown has the Seawall Path which you can use to explore on a bike or on foot. Public transport is through Translink which operates buses, the SkyTrain (the “T”), and the SeaBus. There are bike sharing stations ( Mobi ) across the city and many bike-dedicated street paths.  The water also has little ferries (think like water taxis) by False Creek Ferries and the more colourful “ Aquabus ” which can buzz you around False Creek (e.g. to Granville Island) for a reasonable fare.

Morning Activities: Self-Guided or Bike Tour

Now that you’re fueled up, it’s time to explore the city a little bit. There is just so much to do and see in Vancouver – you’ll never see it all in a day. However, with a bit of planning (and this Vancouver one day guide), you’ll cross quite a bit off your list.

So, to tackle the morning, you could do two things: do a self-guided tour or do a bike tour. Both are good options and work for different travellers. Let’s start with a bike tour and why it’s a great option. 

Vancouver Bike Tour

Address: 648 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2

A really fun and efficient way to see some sights and learn a lot about the city is to explore it on a bike tour. Vancouver is a city that is very bike-friendly so even those who hesitate to bike in big cities can be much more at ease. 

This is actually what we did to explore Vancouver when we were short on time one day. We did this 5-hour bike tour with Cycle City . It was the closest we could find to a Vancouver one day tour and it was absolutely worth it.

The tour started off in the heart of downtown, then headed for Stanley Park along the famous Seawall path (with lots of stops along the way). At one point, we were led into the Park down what felt like a secret forest path to Beaver Lake and it was very tranquil.

We then headed for English Bay, took the water taxi (with bikes!) to Granville Island for lunch, and biked all around False Creek before seeing Gastown, Chinatown, and more. 

Our guide, Greg, was passionate, kept us engaged and safe, and even provided recommendations for dinner and drinks after the tour! If you want to see everything we did on this tour, you can read our Vancouver bike tour review post .

In any case, if you do this tour, you’ll be busy until well after lunch. At this point, you’d likely need a break so skip down to our “afternoon break” section to continue this day’s itinerary.

Also, a friendly disclosure: This is not sponsored- we paid for this tour with our own money and have no connection to the bike shop. Unsurprisingly, this well-rated tour delivered.

Read More: Our Packing List for Canada – All Seasons!

Self-Guided Tour

If you don’t opt for a bike tour, you’ll be on foot (or bus) and a bit more limited in what you can see in the morning. Luckily, you can still experience lots if you plan out your one day in Vancouver on foot well.

Depending on where you got breakfast/where you are staying, we’d recommend exploring downtown Vancouver and the areas closer to False Creek (like Gastown, Chinatown, Granville Island, etc.) in the morning. Here are a few ideas:

• Gastown is the oldest, more historic area of Vancouver and is home to many boutique shops, places to eat, and the famous Gastown Steam Clock.
• You could explore False Creek (and the different stops) using the Aquabus. For example, you might check out Science World if you are travelling with kids.
• Chinatown features city history, eateries, and one of the city’s top attractions  – Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden .
• The heart of downtown has everything from shopping to food, the Vancouver Art Gallery , and the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art , among other things to see.

Whatever you end up seeing/doing, stay to this side of downtown before heading elsewhere in the afternoon (like West End or Stanley Park) to avoid backtracking.

Lunch at Breka Bakery and Cafe or Granville Island

It’s now lunchtime and you’ve got plenty of options. If you hopped on the bike tour mentioned above that takes you for lunch at Granville Island, you’ll have lunch covered so skip down to the late afternoon break section for the next step.

If you just wandered around the Downtown/False Creek end of the city, you could still have lunch at Granville Island. Otherwise, Breka Cafe is a top choice that also works with this one-day in Vancouver itinerary!

Granville Island Public Market

Address: Public Market, 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9

Assuming you started around this end of the city, you can hop on a False Creek Ferry and get taken over to the island in no time at all for lunch.

Granville Island is one of the top places to visit in all of Vancouver because of its food and drink options, art galleries, shops, performance venues, and much more.

In terms of lunch, there are plenty of options in the Public Market to suit all tastes and cuisines. We had some baked goods – a sausage roll – and a pasta salad which was really good from a small vendor. You can find seafood, Italian, sandwiches/delis, and more.

Breka Bakery and Cafe

Address: 812 Bute St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1Y4

Another amazing stop for lunch is Breka Bakery and Cafe . This is a local chain that we fell in love with during our stay (we had breakfast and lunch there a few times). Fun Fact: All seven locations are open 24/7 so… you can always go to Breka!

The good news is that there are multiple locations around the city so you’re never too far from Breka’s delicious baked goods and coffee!

When we visited the Bute Street Location for lunch, it was super busy but the line moved pretty efficiently. We had sandwiches – Eric had the Reuben sandwich which gets grilled and Lisa had the egg salad sandwich. Both were really good – and we got coffees as well because why not? 

We sat outside on the patio overlooking the hustle and bustle of Robson Street nearby. We were also super tempted to get a sweet baked good, but it didn’t happen on this lunch stop (we had some another time and they were tasty)! 

Overall, Breka seems to be a welcoming mix of locals and travellers so we’d recommend it. You can also get your order for takeaway if you want to sit elsewhere.

Afternoon Activity: Explore Stanley Park

Location: Just North of West End/Downtown

If you didn’t go on the bike tour and have already visited parts of Stanley Park , the afternoon after lunch is now your time to go and explore. 

The famous city park needs little introduction. Comprised of 400 hectares (almost 1000 acres!), this green oasis is the city’s oldest (founded in 1888) and biggest park. It’s a defining feature of Vancouver with lots to see and do.

It’s important to remember that Vancouver is situated on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). We’re grateful to be able to visit and share our experiences.

Of course, a notable feature is the seawall pathway which runs around the entire perimeter of the park. Walking or biking, you can explore the wall at your own pace – and choose to enter the park to check out anything that might interest you – be it a pathway, a statue, or a totem pole. 

Speaking of which, Stanley Park has a bunch of other features/spots to check out. These includes:

• Seeing the Totem Poles and learning about their history.
• Wandering around the Lost Lagoon to spot turtles and other wildlife.
• Hiking up to Prospect Point Lookout for an iconic shot of the Lions Gate Bridge.
• Hanging out at Second and/or Third Beach.
• The Vancouver Aquarium – Canada’s largest – is good for visiting with kids.
• Simply wander the wooded interior paths towards Beaver Lake and out again.

There’s much to discover in the Park so you’ll easily fill up an afternoon. Just be sure to take breaks and a water bottle with you if you plan on a longer outing – especially in the summer. 

There’s also a brewery nearby… but we’ll get to that in a second!

Late Afternoon Break in West End

Regardless of whether you completed the bike tour mentioned above or if you’re just exiting Stanley Park on your own itinerary, it’s probably time for a bit of a break. 

For this, we’d say stay in the neighbourhood called West End. Here you’ll find a number of places where you can grab a drink (alcoholic or non) or a quick bite to eat.

Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub

Address: 8901 Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2

If you are looking for something a bit stronger, you can head to Stanley Park Brewing . 

Located between West End (Denman Street) and the heart of Stanley Park (close-ish to Lost Lagoon), this brewery is nestled in the green trees of the park’s edge. 

There are tennis courts right beside and the shoreline is walkable – meaning it’s a lively, active, and green area. 

They have both indoor seating and a large outdoor patio (and beer garden area) so you can choose where you want to sit. If it’s busy, you might want to put your name down with the host staff to ensure you get a spot!

As for beers, everything we had was great. Eric had the Amber ale and Lisa had the Sunsetter peach wheat ale which we both really enjoyed.

We actually went back again at another point in our trip and had the sampler flight. We’d recommend that since they have so many options!

Overall, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about their beer so give them a go if you’re looking for a rest amongst the greenery.

Delany’s Coffee

Address: 1105 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2M7

If you’re looking for a coffee and a place to sit, you could head to Delany’s Coffee . Located right on Denman Street, this is a good local coffee shop with a welcoming and inclusive vibe – and really good coffee.

Inside there is lots of seating, but in the warmer months they also have a few tables and chairs out front along the sidewalk. We stopped through for a flat white and a brownie – both were very good.

Depending on the time of day that you visit, it can get pretty busy. Just something to keep in mind!

Optional (Sunset) Sit at English Bay

Location: Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1; close to Denman Street

Because you’re already located in the West End if you go for coffee or to the brewery mentioned above, a natural next step would be to go have a sit at English Bay Beach.

Depending on the time of year, you might be able to catch the sunset either before or after dinner which is located close by to this area.

English Bay Beach is a very popular hangout both for locals and tourists alike. On sunny days you’ll see people swimming, sunbathing, and just sitting on the benches enjoying the sea air. It’s also connected to the seawall so it’s easy to get to if you’re walking or biking around the city.

Behind the beach closer to where the city begins in Morton Park you’ll find an interesting sculpture called A-maze-ing Laughter.

It is a popular bronze sculpture depicting an artist in many different positions laughing. It’s a popular photo spot in Vancouver so check it out if you’re in the area.

Many years ago when Eric first visited Vancouver with his dad, they caught the most beautiful sunset at English Bay (see above). So definitely try and get in – at the very least – a sit on one of the many benches to take in the views.

Dinner at the Sylvia’s Restaurant & Lounge or Sushi at Mugen

It is now dinner time on this itinerary, and there are loads of places you can go all over Vancouver. For this dinner, we offer two great options: Sylvia’s Restaurant or Sushi Mugen.

Sylvia’s Restaurant & Lounge

Address: 1154 Gilford St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2P6

Dinner at Sylvia’s Restaurant is a classic Vancouver stop. This Historic Hotel has a restaurant on one of the lower floors with large glass windows that allow you to see out over English Bay.

We’d heard about Sylvia’s but actually went because our tour guide on the bike tour, Greg, recommended it as one of his go-to dinner spots. If a local says it’s good, you have to try it!

We ended up making a reservation and this was a very good idea because the restaurant was quite busy. We ended up having fish and chips and a mushroom risotto – both of which were really good.

Lisa got a glass of wine to go with her dinner while Eric opted for a pint of beer from a local brewery (mentioned below).

Overall, the service was great and the atmosphere was social – but not stuffy. There were tourists staying for a drink, families enjoying a meal, and couples having a nice dinner out.

Sushi Mugen

Address: 903 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1B9

Another classic food option in Vancouver is sushi. There are many, many sushi places all around the city and some are definitely better than others. Located on Davie Street closer to downtown, Sushi Mugen had really good sushi.

The place is known for its presentation and the platters definitely did not disappoint. We had a mix of sashimi and specialty rolls as well as their unlimited green tea – everything was honestly amazing.

Half the fun of being there was watching to see what other people got because there were some very elaborate platters and presentations coming out of the kitchen. You have to hand it to the chefs.

Sushi Mugen might be a good option if you are staying closer to the centre of downtown, however, it’s pretty easy to get to because it’s right on Davie with public transportation close by (walking is definitely also an option).

If you want something else for dinner in another part of the city, check out Cardero’s for seafood closer to Coal Harbour, pizza slices at Straight Outta Brooklyn NYC Pizzeria (on Robson) or tasty Vietnamese at Pho Khanh Express (no website, just trust us) at Beatty & Smithe.

Evening Activities/Ideas

It’s now evening in Vancouver, and if you still have some energy left, you can make the most of what the city has to offer at night.

What you do in the evening greatly depends on where you are staying in the city. That said, you can find places to have a drink or even a few nice activities scattered all around parts of downtown and the surrounding neighbourhoods (like in Olympic Village).

So, for this itinerary, we’re going to provide three options for things to do in Vancouver at night. You can decide on what works best for you based on what you’re interested in doing and where you are staying that evening.

The options are: Go for Drinks, Join a Ghost Tour, Enjoy a Performance, or Attend a Sports Game.

Go For Drinks 

There’s absolutely no shortage of places to go for evening drinks in Vancouver. Again, where you go for drinks greatly depends on where you are staying and how far you want to venture from that area.

If you’re close to Gastown you might want to check out Alibi Room or Local Gastown (to name just a few of many).

If you are just south of False Creek, there are lots of breweries and other places to go. We liked Red Truck Beer Company . Some classic stops would also be Tap & Barrel Olympic Village or Craft Beer Market Falls Creek which has dozens and dozens of beers on tap. 

If you’re close to Yaletown then you should just check out what you can find in Yaletown. That said, Bartholomew is one of the top places in the city for wine and cocktails (if you’re not into beer).

Join a Ghost Tour

If you want to learn a little bit more about the city, and you haven’t yet done enough walking, you might want to go on a ghost tour. Vancouver has a rich history and you can learn all about it on a guided wander through Gastown. 

Check Out This Gastown Walking Ghost Tour

This old section of the city has many historic landmarks with a dark past. So, it makes sense that a creepy tour based on true events and a guide in costume would make for a great evening!

Attend a Sports Game

If you’re looking for a little bit of excitement and you’re travelling to Vancouver in the right Sports season, you might be able to catch a game.

The two venues where most of Vancouver’s local teams play are conveniently right beside one another nestled between downtown and False Creek.

BC Place is a large stadium that is home to both the BC Lions (a Canadian football team) and the Vancouver Whitecaps, part of the North American soccer league known as MLS.

Across the street, you’ll find Rogers Arena which is home to the Vancouver Canucks – the local ice hockey team. Unlike in Toronto , there is no baseball or basketball team – but you get some pretty good options with soccer, football, and hockey.

Enjoy a Performance

Last, but certainly not least Vancouver is a metropolitan city that also has a very strong Arts community.

So if you are in town and want to engage in a bit of art and culture, you might look to one of their great venues for some theatre, music, comedy, or otherwise.

Very close to the heart of downtown, you’ll find two of the most popular venues: The Orpheum (usually music) and The Queen Elizabeth Theatre (mostly theatre/performances).

You can learn more about the different venues and the upcoming performances on the website of the Vancouver Civic Theatres .

Because Vancouver is a big centre on the west coast, it’s usually a hot spot for both small and big musical acts travelling up or down from the United States (Seattle, Portland, etc.)

Related Articles

If you’re travelling to Canada and looking for more helpful posts, check out these West Coast Canada guides:

• Where to Stay in Vancouver: Accommodations and Areas
• Things to Do in Vancouver (coming soon!)
• Whistler Day Tour from Vancouver – Our Experience!
• Travelling from Vancouver to Victoria (All Ways)
• One Day in Victoria (A Nice Day Trip from Vancouver)
• Travelling from Vancouver to Tofino (All Ways)

And there you have it – a complete guide on how to spend one day in Vancouver! We kind of gave two itineraries that were intertwined – but there are so many other ways you can spend your day. Just focus on the Vancouver attractions you’re interested in and you can’t go wrong!

As always, Happy Vancouver Waddlin’, – L&E

• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

Pin it for later!

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Destinations

Privacy policy

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

Terms of use

© 2024 Creativlier Media Inc.

Local’s guide: The best one day in Vancouver itinerary

Welcome to Vancouver, a vibrant coastal city located in the province of British Columbia, Canada. This beautiful city is full of outdoor adventures, beautiful sites, museums and fun things to do no matter what time of year you chose to visit.

As someone who has been living in this city for six years , I have been asked countless times by friends, family (and even a couple of strangers who were on a layover in Vancouver), about the best things to do in Vancouver if they only have one day to explore. 

While I always personalize my recommendations based on their interests and preferences, there are some activities that are a must-do for everyone visiting this beautiful city.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Vancouver has something to offer everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, world-class cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, this city has a lot to see and do. 

From exploring Stanley Park , one of the largest urban parks in North America, to strolling through the historic neighbourhood of Gastown, there is no shortage of things to keep you busy for a day.

In this blog post, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Vancouver that I believe everyone should experience, regardless of their interests. These activities are perfect for those who are short on time but still want to get a taste of what this city has to offer.

So, without further ado, let’s get started on our one-day itinerary for exploring Vancouver!

Looking for more things to do in Vancouver and nearby? Check out my Vancouver travel guides which are full of information on the best things to do in Vancouver, the best Vancouver restaurants, and detailed guides for each of the main neighborhoods.

How to spend one day in Vancouver BC

We’ll start this itinerary at Canada Place since this is where you’ll arrive if you’ve just stepped off a cruise ship ready for your Vancouver day trip, or have taken the Skytrain all the way to downtown Vancouver. 

If you’re starting this one day Vancouver itinerary from elsewhere in the city, just catch the sky train to Waterfront station and follow it from there. 

Or perhaps you’re doing a day trip to Vancouver from Seattle ? In which case, park your car downtown and start your itinerary then. 

Do you need to rent a car in Vancouver?

Not for these recommendations for one day in Vancouver as these are all in downtown Vancouver. 

For additional activities, you can use public transport, or make the most of the free shuttles to attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain . Depending on how many are in your group, you may still want to rent a car.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Canada Place

Starting at Canada Place, I recommend taking a walk around the back of the Convention Centre. Here you’ll get your first glimpses of the North Shore Mountains of Grouse Mountain , Mt Seymour and the Cypress Mountain ski area. You can also see Stanley Park off to your west.

Canada Place, perched right by the water in downtown Vancouver is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a cruise ship terminal, hotel, and convention centre and is home to the amazing FlyOver Canada experience. 

If you have longer than 1 day in Vancouver, I’d recommend checking out this experience. 

During this 8-minute immersive flying ride, you’ll feel like you’re soaring through the country’s most iconic scenes, complete with sights and sounds that will leave you feeling like you’ve truly experienced Canada.

If you just have 24 hours in Vancouver, then skip this and follow the seawall as it winds around giving you incredible views, until you get towards the intersection of Denman Street and West Georgia Street and our next stop. 

Bike the Stanley Park Seawall

At the intersection of Denman Street and W. Georgia Street in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour/West End neighbourhoods, you’ll find plenty of places to rent bicycles for biking in Stanley Park.

This is the absolute must-do for anyone visiting Vancouver even if you only have a few hours in Vancouver. 

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve cycled around Stanley Park , run or walked around and through it. It’s such an amazing park to have right in the heart of downtown Vancouver and I never take it for granted. 

While the Vancouver seawall (a paved multi-use path for cyclists and pedestrians) is 22 km long, the Stanley Park section of the seawall is about 10 km long.

You could walk it in a couple of hours since it’s pretty flat (unless you go up to Prospect Point), but I recommend cycling it to see everything a bit quicker and fit more into your one day in Vancouver itinerary. 

Pick up your bike from a bike rental store such as Spokes , and then follow the other cyclists back across West Georgia Street and down towards the water. 

The cycle path is a one-way path around Stanley Park and it’s super easy to follow. 

You’ll pass through some of the top attractions in Stanley Park such as The Vancouver Aquarium, the totem poles, Brockton Point Lighthouse, go underneath Lions Gate Bridge and then emerge on the southern side of the park where you’ll pass First and Second Beaches before coming out towards Stanley Park Brewing, the tennis courts and a loop back towards your bike rental where you started. 

However, I recommend holding on to your bike for a few more hours to explore English Bay Beach and Granville Island.

If you skip the bike ride, I recommend walking over towards the Totem Poles, or exploring some of the inner trails out towards the Lost Lagoon or Beaver Lake.  The Stanley Park trails are some of my favourite parts of the park and most visitors miss them! 

Another fun way to experience Stanley Park is to take a horse and carriage ride through it. These tours will teach you history and facts about Vancouver and its original inhabitants. 

English Bay Beach

I used to live a few minutes walk away from English Bay Beach and it was part of my morning coffee walks before work. 

Though I personally prefer Sunset Beach which I lived even closer to – it’s quieter and arguably prettier – English Bay Beach is at the heart of the West End and is perfect for relaxing on, swimming in, or just enjoying the views. 

If you want to get coffee, I recommend heading to JJ Bean on Davie Street. This was my go-to coffee shop and they do some great muffins and croissants !

There’s also Craft beer Co. and Cactus Club on English Bay Beach, both of which have great views of the beach and some of the best patios in Vancouver.

Grab lunch at Granville Island Public Market

If you have a half day in Vancouver, combine this with Stanley Park above.

From English Bay Beach, ride or walk along the seawall until you get to the ferry dock under Burrard Street Bridge. It’s right at the eastern end of Sunset Beach and near a dog park too.

This is the terminal for the False Creek Ferries, they’re quite small so you can’t take bikes on them. 

If you have your bike, lock it up securely (using a D-lock as bike theft is rife in Vancouver), or cycle a bit further to the bottom of Hornby Street where you can take the Aquabus to Granville Island and carry your bike on the ferry with you. 

Instead of taking Robson Street into the centre of the city, skip the downtown area for now. Head south to Granville Island. Take any of the streets south until you reach Pacific Street. Follow the road to Granville Bridge.

No matter which ferry company you chose, get a return ticket to Granville Island. I used to love riding these ferries around False Creek. It’s such a fun way to get to Granville Island, or around False Creek. 

You can even see whales in here (it’s very rare but has happened), but you’re more likely to see seals bobbing about in the water. 

Granville Island island is a popular Vancouver tourist attraction thanks to the Granville Island Public Market.

At the market, you’ll find local produce including fruit and vegetables, meat and fish as well as food stalls for lunch and various other sweet treats including Lucky’s Donuts. There’s also a large art market, a children’s toy shop and theatre and great restaurants and the Granville Island Brewing Company.

You should budget at least an hour for exploring the Granville Island restaurants and shops. If you want to spend your afternoon taking a jet ski or boat tour, or wish to go whale watching from Vancouver, this is where you’ll take those tours. 

Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

Next up on your day trip in Vancouver itinerary it’s a dose of culture!

Take the Aquabus or False Creek Ferry back across to Sunset Beach/Hornby Street and make your way into downtown Vancouver to visit the Vancouver Art Gallery . 

Whether you’re cycling or walking, it’s easiest to walk straight down Hornby Street which has a dedicated bike lane making it safe for cyclists. 

The Vancouver Art Gallery is home to some of the most creative and innovative art exhibits and includes artwork from the famous Canadian painter, Emily Carr, as well as temporary exhibits.  

The collections and exhibits cover a wide range of mediums. It holds paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations, and a large collection of photographs including pieces from Indigenous artists. 

A ticket to the Vancouver Art Gallery costs $30.45 but if you’re visiting on a Tuesday, you can get a ticket by donation and pay what you wish when visiting in the evening.

The gallery is right downtown and super close to shopping centres. You’ll find several food trucks just behind the art gallery too which are well worth checking out if you haven’t yet had lunch.

This Vancouver food truck website shows you where and when the food trucks are in the area, as well as what food they do. 

After exploring the gallery, you can sit outside in the plaza and watch the frequent demonstrations, protests, or street performers that gather on the art gallery steps! There are even food trucks nearby, so you can enjoy a snack with your people-watching.

From here, head along Robson Street to enjoy some shopping until you get back to wherever you hired your bike on Denman Street. If you’ve been walking, then head over to the next stop on this one day in Vancouver itinerary. 

• Opening hours: Sat, Sun, Mon, Wed, 10 am – 5 pm, Tuesday: 12 pm – 8 pm, Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm
• Price:  C$30.45

Visit Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Using public transit, walking or getting an Uber/Lyft, head over the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

The next stop on this Vancouver one day trip is the city’s Chinatown.

Vancouver’s Chinese garden , is located in the heart of Chinatown. This tranquil spot, designed in the style of a Ming Dynasty garden, provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, at the end of your visit, you can enjoy a complimentary cup of tea!

Although the garden is relatively small and can be toured in about 30 minutes, it is truly breathtaking on the inside. 

If you visit in the spring, you’ll be treated to a stunning display of pink Vancouver cherry blossoms throughout the entire garden. 

If you just want a sample of the Chinese Garden , there’s a free section you can enter. Though smaller than the main area, you’ll still get to wander around the ponds, trees and boardwalks without having to pay a thing. 

• Opening hours: 10 am – 3 pm daily, closed Monday and Tuesday
• Price:  C$16

Wander around Gastown, shop, eat dinner or grab some drinks

It’s now time to visit Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood and one of the top things to see in Vancouver in a day: Gastown.  

From the Chinese garden, it’s just a short walk to the cobbled streets of historic Gastown where you’ll find some of Vancouver’s best independent shops which are perfect for buying souvenirs , the Gastown steam clock and plenty of great restaurants.  

Though the Gastown Steam Clock is not longer steam-powered, it’s still a fascinating attraction that produces a puff of steam every hour and whistles a short tune every 15 minutes. 

After checking out the clock, take a stroll through the oldest parts of the city with their Victorian-style architecture and rows of brick buildings.

Gastown has a ton of character and charm, with cobblestone streets and unique architecture that make it a really enjoyable place for a late afternoon or evening stroll.

If you’re visiting Gastown between 3-5 pm, be sure to check out any one of the numerous happy hours at the restaurants and pubs in the area. Or, take a Gastown food tour to discover the best places to eat.

If it’s dinner time now, then be sure to check out some of Gastown’s best restaurants . These include: 

• Nuba: which does delicious Lebanese cuisine that’s perfect for sharing
• St Lawrence : This is one of Vancouver’s first Michelin-starred restaurants. You’ll need to book this one several months in advance but it’s so worth it! 
• Tacofino: Casual Mexican food and one of my favourite places to eat in Vancouver. Get nachos to share and a couple of tacos each. 

There is also a tonne of bars in Gastown including Guilt & Co . which has live music most nights, 6 Acres for beer and Steamwhistle brewing back near Waterfront Station. 

Finish your day in Vancouver by watching the sunset from the Vancouver Lookout

Finish off your day in Vancouver by visiting the Vancouver Lookout . This is a must-visit attraction offering one of the best views of Vancouver and even all the way out towards Mt Baker in the US on a clear day! 

Standing at almost 150 meters high, the tower provides a panoramic view of the city that includes an observation deck, a gift shop, and a restaurant.

Top tip: if you grab dinner at the restaurant, you don’t need to pay for a Vancouver Lookout admission ticket! 

You’ll take an elevator to the top where the observation deck is. The best time to visit is at sunset when you’ll be able to see the mountains cast in a beautiful light.

Since it’s so close to Gastown, it’s the perfect stop before or after grabbing dinner there. 

• Opening hours: 8.30 am – 11 pm in summer, 11 am – 4 pm in winter
• Price:  C$20.26

More Vancouver itinerary ideas

If you manage to whizz through the above, or something doesn’t sound up your street, you can replace things, or add some more of these Vancouver itinerary ideas to your day.

These are also my top recommendations for people who have longer to spend in Vancouver.

Take a tour of Vancouver’s craft breweries and murals

Vancouver’s craft beer game is super strong. I lost track of how many breweries there were in Vancouver and there’s an increasing number in North Vancouver too. 

You’ll find loads of the best breweries between West 5th and West 8th streets on either side of Main Street in the Mount Pleasant area of Vancouver . 

This neighbourhood is the most ‘cool’ and full of hipsters and independent boutiques, coffee shops, great restaurants along Main Street and more.

If you have more than one day in Vancouver, I highly recommend spending some time in this part of Vancouver.

You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the murals in the area. There’s a mural festival every summer where artists give old buildings a lease of life with a new mural. You can watch them paint during the festival but can take a tour all year round. 

One of the main draws for the area is the sheer number of breweries they have here. Some of my favourites are Main Street Brewing , Faculty and 33 Acres . The latter is very hard to get a table at though, so be prepared to wait! 

Ride the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver

North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay has a great market, restaurants, cafes and fantastic views of downtown Vancouver.  

While you can drive to North Vancouver, traffic can be a nightmare at certain times of day and getting the Seabus from Waterfront Station to North Vancouver is far more enjoyable. It’s like a sightseeing trip combined with transport all in one.

The sea bus is very regular and runs every 15 minutes throughout the day. You can take bikes on it too. 

Once you arrive in North Vancouver, explore the quay and the Lonsdale quay market which is similar to Granville Market but often less busy. 

There are also some great North Vancouver Breweries nearby which are well worth checking out including North Point Brewing and Wild Eye.

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium sits inside Stanley Park and is one of Vancouver’s top attractions, especially if you’re visiting with kids.

It’s home to so many amazing sea creatures including a family of otters, sea lions and seals who’ve been rescued from boating accidents and other accidents. 

I used to volunteer for the aquarium when it was a non-profit and it’s a really great research-focused and care-oriented aquarium.

The aquarium is massive, covering over 9,000 square meters and containing more than nine million litres of water. Inside, you can explore dozens of habitats from the Amazon area to the West Coast jellyfish and aquatic life including the Seth Rogen octopus! 

You can also see the penguins and watch their feeding times which is super fun. 

• Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily
• Price:  C$46.20

Go shopping on Robson Street

If you’re looking for things to do in Vancouver in one day, a visit to Robson Street is a must. It’s one of the best shopping districts in the city, with a wide range of stores that cater to every taste and budget. 

Whether you’re into luxury brands like Gucci or prefer to shop at Canadian favourites like Roots, Lululemon or Artizia, Robson Street has something for everyone.

What’s more, the street’s central location means it’s easy to access from anywhere in Vancouver, whether you’re coming from Stanley Park or BC Place Stadium. 

The best shopping on Robson Street runs from Granville Street westwards towards Denman Street in the West End. 

The west end is home to some of the best places for ramen and sushi in Vancouver . And so if you’re in the mood for ramen, I highly recommend getting it here. 

Some of my favourite ramen places in Vancouver were Ramen Danbo as well as Marutama Ramen for its chicken broth. All of them offer vegan and vegetarian broths and ramen too. 

Overall, a trip to Robson Street is a fantastic addition to any itinerary for one day in Vancouver. With its diverse array of shops, restaurants, and cafes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

If you have more than one day to spend in Vancouver, a great destination is the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Located just 20-30 minutes from downtown in North Vancouver, this park is a pristine slice of nature that’s sure to take your breath away.

The park is named for the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which was built in 1889 and has since become a world-famous attraction. Spanning 137 meters across Capilano Canyon and suspended 70 meters over the Capilano River, the bridge offers spectacular views of the canyon and the beautiful forest below. 

But the Capilano Suspension Bridge is just the beginning of what the park has to offer. Make sure to check out the Treetops Adventure too. 

This is a series of bridges that drift between towering thousand-year-old Douglas Fir trees. The bridges float 30 meters above the forest canopy, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.

There’s also the Capilano cliffwalk where you’ll walk along boardwalks jutting out into the canyon and have beautiful views to admire.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of the most iconic attractions in Vancouver, and it’s easy to see why. With its breathtaking views, thrilling adventures, and fascinating history, it’s a destination that should definitely be on your list.

However, it’s also one of the most expensive attractions in Vancouver. 

While I still think Capilano Suspension Bridge is worth it , there are some free alternatives such as Lynn Canyon or other places where you might wish to spend your money instead. 

• Opening hours: Varies slightly throughout the year, but mostly 10 am – 8 pm
• Price: C$69.25 ( BC residents can show their ticket stub to get a year’s annual pass)

Take a whale watching tour from Vancouver

There are several companies that operate whale watching tours from downtown Vancouver (mostly from Granville Island) but also from Coal Harbour too.

Though I usually recommend heading over to Vancouver Island for wildlife tours , if you’re not planning on heading that way then taking a whale watching tour from Vancouver is still worthwhile.

The best time to go whale watching in Vancouver is in the summer when you have a higher chance of viewing both the redient orcas and the transient orca pods. 

You can also see seals and humpback whales during these tours.

Book a Vancouver whale watching tour

Panoramic seaplane tour

A Vancouver floatplane tour was one of the first tours we did in Vancouver when we first moved there. I bought it as a present for my husband’s birthday and when our families came to visit us, we got them tickets too. 

It’s such a fun tour and gives you a great view of downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park and out towards the North Shore Mountains. It’s incredible! 

For an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Vancouver, you should definitely consider taking a seaplane tour. 

Departing from Canada Place harbour, the 30-minute tour is available multiple times throughout the day. It’s not a cheap thing to do in Vancouver, but it’s so worth it.

Book a panoramic sea plane tour in Vancouver

Go on a hike near Vancouver

One of the main reasons we moved from the UK to Canada was to enjoy outdoor activities including hiking. In Vancouver, you’re truly spoilt for choice when it comes to where to hike. 

From the trails of Lynn Canyon park and other easy hikes including Dog Mountain and Bowen Lookout to harder trails like St Mark’s Summit , Brunswick Mountain and Mt Harvey or the Lions, your options are almost endless. 

When hiking in Vancouver you have to be bear aware as there are many black bears living on the North Shore. If you’re unsure what the principles of being bear safe are, you should book a guided Vancouver hiking tour where you won’t have to worry about navigation either.

I’ve over 100 Vancouver hiking guides to many of the hikes in and around Vancouver that I’ve personally done. They also include the best hikes in Whistler and the best Squamish hikes so if your travels are taking you along the sea to sky highway, I’ve got you covered there too.

• Best winter hikes in Vancouver
• Best hikes in Vancouver in Spring
• Best hikes in the fall in Vancouver
• 21 Best Vancouver hikes

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

Head up to Grouse Mountain

If you’re looking to experience Vancouver’s natural beauty, Grouse Mountain is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Peak of Vancouver,” the mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. 

You can reach the top by either taking the Gondola or by hiking the Grouse Grind trail . Admission and the Gondola ride cost C$61 and if you’ve hiked the Grouse Grind you can get a download ticket for C$20. 

Note: You’re not allowed to hike down the Grouse Grind. You must get a gondola download ticket or take the BCMC trail down. I wouldn’t recommend the BCMC if you’re not used to Vancouver-style hikes as it’s steep, rocky, rooty and not easy terrain to navigate. 

The Grouse Grind is definitely more of a workout than a picturesque hike. It’s all stairs of varying heights and evenness. You’ll get passed by locals running (yes, really) up it so pay attention and be sure to move out of their way. 

It takes more visitors 1-2 hours to complete with 1 being at the quicker scale of things. 

The more relaxing way to get up to Grouse is to take the gondola . With your admission ticket, you can ride the gondola up and down and take the Peak chairlift to the peak of Grouse Mountain in the summer. 

The summer at Grouse also has the grizzly bear exhibit, lumberjack shows, a bird of pretty demonstration and additional activities including a scenic helicopter ride, paragliding, zip lines and more.

There are also other hiking trails up here such as Dam Mountain , Little Goat Mountain and Thunderbird Ridge. There’s also Crown Mountain but this is a very strenuous all-day hike that shouldn’t be attempted unless you’re a fit and experienced hiker. 

You could easily spend the best part of a day just exploring Grouse Mountain. 

At the top of the mountain, there is an excellent restaurant and café where you can relax and enjoy a snack or drink while taking in the breathtaking views of Vancouver, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains. 

In the winter Grouse Mountain is a ski resort and while it’s a great ski area, I would recommend skiing at Mt Seymour or Cypress over Grouse instead if you’re looking for 1 day in Vancouver winter activities.

• Opening hours: 9 am – 9 pm daily
• Price: C$72.45
• Tickets 

Take a day trip to Victoria

Many people are surprised to learn that Vancouver is not the capital of BC, it’s actually the city of Victoria on Vancouver Island.

Though I recommend people spend more than one day on Vancouver Island so you can visit places like Tofino and Campbell River, it is possible to visit Victoria in a day. 

In Victoria, you can explore the colourful Fisherman’s Wharf, the beautiful harbour and Butchart Gardens. 

Read this to learn more about planning a day trip to Victoria. 

Drive the sea to sky to Whistler

The Sea to Sky is the name given to the highway that runs between Vancouver and Pemberton. It’s super scenic with ocean, mountain or forest views the entire way.

Driving this road from Vancouver to Whistler and back is one of my top recommendations for people visiting Vancouver and looking for things to add to their Vancouver itinerary.

Along the way you can stop off at scenic swimming points, go hiking in Squamish or ride the gondola to the top of the Sea to Sky , view impressive waterfalls such as Shannon Falls or Brandywine Falls and then explore the town of Whistler, home to North America’s largest ski area. 

If you don’t have a car in Vancouver but want to visit Whistler, this day trip from Vancouver to Whistler stops off at the best sights along the way and includes your transport.

Best Vancouver sightseeing tours

Exploring a city like Vancouver can be overwhelming, especially if you have limited time. There’s just so much to do and see and so picking a few things can be hard! 

That’s why I’ve handpicked the best sightseeing tours for you to make the most out of your one day in Vancouver without the stress of planning.

Vancouver highlights (by e-bike)

For a unique way to see the city, try this tour of Vancouver by e-bike which takes you around all the city’s highlights. 

It’s a 5-hour bike tour with a knowledgeable local guide during which you’ll visit popular spots like Gastown, Olympic Village, English Bay, and Granville Island while learning about the city’s culture and history. 

I’ve seen these tours while wandering my city and people always seem to have such fun!

Book this e-bike tour here.

Vancouver city tour

In just 4 hours, this sightseeing tour will take you to the top attractions in Vancouver. Your local guide will personalise the itinerary for you and will typically include places such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, Chinatown, and Gastown.

Book this Vancouver city tour

Getting around Vancouver

When planning a trip to Vancouver, you might want to consider the transportation options available to navigate the city. This is especially true if you’re adding any of the additional activities to your Vancouver itinerary.

Luckily Vancouver is one of the easiest and most well-connected cities to get around in North America. It has a subway system, buses, bikes, and car sharing and it’s very walkable too. 

Driving in Vancouver

If you’re sticking to the activities listed under the one day in Vancouver itinerary section I wouldn’t recommend hiring a car.

Traffic can be bad in Vancouver and there’s just no need for a car for these downtown activities unless you have young children or mobility issues. Parking in Vancouver can be hard to find and expensive too. 

You also won’t need a car to explore Grouse Mountain or Capilano Suspension Bridge. Both are easy to get to via public transport and have free shuttles to take you from downtown Vancouver to them.

However, if you’re planning on exploring further afield (e.g. Whistler or Squamish ) then having a car will be useful. 

If you do decide to rent a car, check if your accommodation has somewhere to park it. Many Vancouver hotels will charge an additional fee for parking. In that case, it might be worth hiring a car for just one or two days, rather than the whole time you’re in the city. 

Public transit in Vancouver

Vancouver’s public transit system is pretty good, especially when it comes to cities in North America. Sure, it’s not up to London in the UK’s standards, but it’s also a much smaller city. 

You can get the Skytrain, sea bus, aqua buses and normal buses all over Vancouver and they’re pretty regular and on time. 

You can pay with your normal credit or debit card on the buses and Skytrains or you can get a compass card which is slightly cheaper and you just need to top it up every now and again unless you set it to auto-top up by creating an account online. 

Car sharing 

If you have a Canadian license or a license from Europe or America, you should be eligible for using the car sharing services such as Evo and Modo . 

Just make sure you try to register in advance of your trip so that they’re set up in advance. For Evo, you may need to change the location on your app store to be able to download the app.

Use my code 227NTN4Z to join Evo for free and get $25.00 of free drive time. Download the app ( iOs & Android ) or visit evo.ca

Essentially, these car-sharing apps are where you can rent a car for a few minutes or a few hours. Evo was the service I used when living in Vancouver and it maxes out at around $100 a day for rentals, plus you don’t need to pay for any of the gas you use.

If there are a few of you who can split the costs, it can sometimes work out cheaper than renting a car once you’ve factored in car insurance and gas prices. 

You can pick up and drop off the car at designated checkpoints around the city, and the best part is they get lots of free parking.

Taxis, Uber and Lyft

Though they were banned in Vancouver for many years, Uber and Lyft have been allowed in Vancouver for several years now making it super easy to get around the city. 

I’d recommend getting the Skytrain from the airport to downtown Vancouver to avoid the surcharge placed on taxis and ride sharing companies, but otherwise, their prices are quite reasonable and are a good option for early mornings and late nights when the other public transit isn’t fully running. 

Walking and biking

Vancouver is super walkable. You can either walk through downtown core, or take the longer, more scenic route along the seawall to almost anywhere you want to get to downtown. It’s very easy to spend one day in Vancouver without a car. 

Vancouver isn’t a large city either so if you combine walking with the aquabuses you can see most of Vancouver without the need for a car or a bus. 

Cycling in Vancouver is also a great way to get around the city. There are loads of bike paths in Vancouver with many of them separated from the road which makes it feel safe. I’ve cycled in many major cities around the world and have never felt safer on my bike than I did in Vancouver.

There’s also a bike share scheem through Shaw, which works like those in many cities across the world and you just pay to use the bike collecting and docking it at the bike stations located around the city.

Local’s tip: If you plan to leave a bike unattended somewhere in Vancouver ensure you’re using a super strong D-lock. Bike theft is one of the most common crimes in the city and your bike will go missing if not locked up with aD-lock! 

When is the best time to visit Vancouver

The best time to visit Vancouver, BC depends on what you are looking for in your trip. Vancouver has something to offer throughout the year, but the weather and activities available can vary greatly depending on the season. Here is a breakdown of each season to help you decide:

Spring (March-May)

Spring is a great time to visit Vancouver if you enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds. The cherry blossoms bloom in April make for a beautiful sight and can be found throughout the city.

The temperature is typically around 10-15°C (50-59°F), so you will want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Spring is also a great time for hiking and outdoor activities as the snow begins to melt in the mountains.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Vancouver is the peak tourist season, and for good reason. The weather is sunny and warm, with temperatures typically ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). In the last few years, there has been a week or two of extreme heat with temperatures in the high 30s ºC.

There are plenty of outdoor festivals, concerts, and events happening throughout the city, including the famous Celebration of Light fireworks festival in late July and early August. Summer is also a great time for outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and kayaking . 

It does mean Vancouver is busiest during these months though with hotel prices higher than at other times of the year. 

June is also called ‘June-uary’ by locals since it typically sees a lot of rain making it feel like January.

Fall (September-November)

Fall in Vancouver is a beautiful time, with the changing leaves creating a colourful backdrop throughout the city. 

September is usually just slightly cooler than July and August and is one of my favourite times for exploring Vancouver.

The temperature can range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), and there are typically fewer crowds than in the summer months. Though it can rain a lot, there’s plenty to do on a rainy day in Vancouver .

Fall is a great time for outdoor activities, including fall hiking, cycling, and visiting local farms and orchards for apple and pumpkin picking in Vancouver .

Winter (December-February):

Winter in Vancouver is mild compared to other parts of Canada, but it can still be chilly and very wet. 

Temperatures typically range from 0-10°C (32-50°F), and it can rain frequently. 

However, the mountains surrounding Vancouver offer plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Winter is also a great time to visit the city’s indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and restaurants and there are loads of things to do in Vancouver at Christmas.

Overall, the best time to visit Vancouver really depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is the best time to visit. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall are great options. And if you enjoy winter sports and indoor activities, winter is a good time to visit.

How to get to Vancouver

The best way to get to Vancouver is by flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This airport is located is about 20-30 minutes from downtown Vancouver. 

As a major city in North America Canada, Vancouver is well connected to cities all over the world. 

You can book flights from major Canadian and international airlines such as Air Canada, British Airways, and West Jet. 

The easiest way to get from VYR to downtown Vancouver is to take the Skytrain but there are car rental companies at the airport and you can take Uber or Lyft too.

If you are coming from Victoria, you can take a ferry departing from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen ferry terminal and then drive 35 minutes or so to downtown Vancouver. 

Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay in west Vancouver. 

BC Ferries operate all these ferry services and booking in advance is highly recommended, especially at weekends and in the summer months. 

Final thoughts on one day in Vancouver

When it comes to what to do in Vancouver for a day, there are so many activities and sights to explore.

Some of the best things to do in Vancouver in a day include visiting Stanley Park or Gastown, a historic neighbourhood with charming brick buildings and great restaurants. 

Another must-see attraction is the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.

For a unique cultural experience, head to Granville Island , where you can explore the bustling public market, shop for local crafts, and visit the Vancouver Art Gallery . For those interested in marine life, the Vancouver Aquarium is a great option, with habitats that include penguins, sea urchins, and other sea creatures.

The Vancouver Lookout is a great spot for panoramic views of the city, day or night. 

With these and many other options available, a day in Vancouver is sure to be filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences.

FAQs on a Vancouver one day itinerary

Is 1 day enough in vancouver.

You definitely need more than one day to really visit Vancouver and embrace everything it has to offer. However, if you can only have one day in Vancouver then you can still see some of the city’s top attractions including Stanley Park, Granville Market and Gastown.

What to do in Vancouver Canada for 24 hours?

Explore the highlights of Vancouver in just one day! Take a scenic stroll around Stanley Park, visit the historic district of Gastown, and check out the marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium. Finish off the day with a sunset at Sunset Beach or English Bay Beach.

How do you spend time in Vancouver?

Many locals spend time in Vancouver by embracing the great outdoors. Vancouver is surrounded by ocean, mountains and forest and so cycling, walking and running around the city’s Stanley Park and Seawall are the best ways to experience the city’s beauty.

What to do in Vancouver in 4 hours?

If you only have 4 hours in Vancouver – perhaps you’re on a layover – catch the Skytrain to downtown Vancouver, rent a bike and cycle around Stanley Park and to English Bay Beach. Grab a beer at Craft Beer Market on Pacific Street, or a frosé at Cactus Club. If you still have time, catch the aqua bus to Granville Market for a wander, and then head back to the airport!

What to do in Vancouver for one night?

If you’re looking for what to do in Vancouver for one night, I recommend exploring Gastown’s bars and restaurants or heading over to Granville Street for live music at the Commodore Ballroom. There are also lots of bars in Yaletown. 

Last Updated on January 3, 2024 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

Two Sisters Abroad

two sisters exploring the world

One Day in Vancouver: Travel Guide and Itinerary

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a wonderful city to visit. Whether you’re simply passing through, taking a long layover, or spending a few days in the city, there are tons of fun things for travelers to do. You’ll find beautiful outdoor spaces, biking trails, and tons of delicious food. Keep reading for your travel guide and itinerary for one day in Vancouver!

Sleep – The Best Hotels in Vancouver

I stayed in the Davie Village neighborhood in downtown Vancouver, and while I liked the area, I cannot recommend the hotel.

Quick tangent about the hotel I booked: I stayed at The Burrard , and while it was cute and affordable (by Vancouver standards), there were mice in my room. When I went down to the front desk at 2am after spotting a second mouse walking on the espresso machine, I appreciate that they did switch me to another room. However, they weren’t at all surprised there were mice in my room, which I found concerning. They said it was the weather that was forcing mice inside. Next time, I will definitely pay a little more and stay at a nicer hotel to avoid the mice situation.

In terms of the best area to stay in the city, the downtown area of Vancouver is very walkable, so almost anywhere you stay will be a great location.

Note: finding hotels downtown under $300 is almost impossible in the summertime. In the winter, it is less expensive.

Hotels in Downtown Vancouver

• The Listel Hotel
• The St. Regis Hotel
• Wedgewood Hotel & Spa – Relais & Chateaux
• L’Hermitage Hotel  
• Metropolitan Hotel

Hotels in the greater Vancouver area

• Granville Island Hotel

One Day In Vancouver – Itinerary

Grab a coffee and head to granville island.

Start your day in Vancouver by grabbing a coffee! Vancouver is definitely a coffee city, and there are so many cute cafes serving up great coffee.

A few of my favorites include:

• Honolulu Coffee Company
• Pallet Coffee Roasters
• Elysian Coffee

Explore Granville Island Public Market and Have Breakfast

Located on Granville Island, you’ll find Public Market, an indoor food hall with tons of delicious options. You’ll find everything from sandwiches to ice cream to fresh produce and more!

This is a great place to grab some breakfast/brunch and enjoy the views of the water.

Granville Island is connected to the downtown area, and you can easily get there by car, bus, bike, boat or on foot. Read all about how to best get to Granville Island here .

Personally, I think the best way to get to Granville Island is by water taxi. The ride is really short (5 minutes), but it’s a fun experience. You can take either the Aquabus or the False Creek Ferry . Both have multiple pick-up and drop-off spots. You can buy tickets in advance or on-board and they’re affordable.

Explore Stanley Park and the Beaches

Stanley Park is a huge park in Northwest Downton Vancouver, and makes a great place to visit when the weather is nice. You can walk or bike through the park, stopping to relax, enjoy the scenery and even have a picnic.

In addition to green spaces, Stanley Park is also home to several beaches. English Bay and Second Beach are both located close to the entrance of the park. They are pretty beaches and make a great place to spend a few hours.

Stanley Park makes an especially great place to visit with families! You can easily spend the whole afternoon there.

Visit Cartems for the Best Donuts

After spending a few hours in Stanley Park, a donut is exactly what you’ll need! Hop in an Uber, or on the bus, and head further downtown towards the Gastown neighborhood. There, you’ll find Cartems , a donut shop that serves up some of the best donuts I’ve ever had.

They have a ton of flavors to choose from, and they also have vegan and gluten free options.

Take in the Views from the Vancouver Lookout

From Cartems donuts, head across the street to the Vancouver Lookout for amazing city views.

Something I love about the Vancouver Lookout is that it has glass elevators, so you get amazing views on the ride up and down. From the top, you get 360 degree city views. There are also tons of signs explaining what you’re looking at, as well as an audio guide you can listen to as you walk around taking in the views.

Tickets are CA$18.25 for adults and CA$13.25 for students and children.

Have Dinner at Tacofino

Tacofino has multiple locations around the city, and while you can’t go wrong with any of them, I recommend the Yaletown location for dinner. The food is really good and the restaurant is casual and fun.

Yaletown is a cute neighborhood filled with restaurants and bars, and it’s a great place for dinner any night of the week.

After dinner, check out Mister Artisan Ice Cream . There will probably be a line, but it’s worth it!

Have Breakfast at The Templeton Diner

Before ending your time in Vancouver, definitely check out The Templeton Diner for breakfast.

The 1950s style dinner is retro and fun, and the classic American breakfast food’s good too! There will probably be a line (they don’t take reservations), but it moves quickly and is worth it.

If you have extra time:

Take tours! I’m a huge fan of unique tours, and there are so many to choose from in Vancouver. I love that there’s so many outdoor activities in the summer – like whale watching and boat tours .

Fun Tours in Vancouver

• Whale Watching Adventure
• Seaplane Tour
• Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour
• Electric Bike Tour of Vancouver

Q&A – One Day in Vancouver

• Yes! Especially in the summer, there are so many great outdoor activities and things to do.
• In my opinion, the summer months are the best time to visit Vancouver. The weather is generally comfortable and there is a lot to do.
• 1-2 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Vancouver.
• If you’re planning on staying in the city itself, then no car is needed. Vancouver is very walkable and Ubers and public transportation are available.

I hope you found this one day Vancouver guide to be helpful! If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments!

Remember to save this post and share it with someone you know who’d love a trip to Vancouver!

This one day guide to Vancouver includes affiliate links! Read our disclosure  here .

You may also like

4 Days in Mexico City: Epic Itinerary and Travel Guide

Things to know before visiting Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas

The Best Donuts in NYC

12 comments.

Vancouver really looks lovely, so many cool activities here! I hope I can visit Canada soon! and it’s great that you can visit in a couple of days! The food scene looks very interesting! Thanks for sharing this article

Thanks for sharing your experience staying in Vancouver! I especially appreciate the honest review of the hotel.

Vancouver has been on my wish list for so long. Looks such a cool city. Would just 1-2 days be really enough?

Hi Sarah! I definitely think 1-2 days is enough in Vancouver. It’s not a very big city, and it’s pretty walkable, so you can hit the major sites and still have time to relax in the park or on the beach!

This is such a great guide, I love how you weave in not only cool places to visit, but also where to stop to eat along the way! I would love to break up my day in Vancouver with a donut 🙂 Thanks!

Nice place!!

I love Vancouver! I always like checking out where everyone else eats. You’ve introduced me to a new place, thanks!

Love this one-day itinerary to Vancouver! What a beautiful city to explore!

Yaaay! I am glad you liked Vancouver. It is such a fab city to live in (at least if you don’t see mice in your room!!) If you come back and fancy going hiking, I have loooads of fun ideas for you. 🙂

We have an Alaskan cruise booked next May out of Seattle and hope to be driving from Tennessee and want to explore Vancouver, and the island. Will be checking your site out along the way as we plan.

What a lovely guide, this one! Thanks for sharing – your photos are beautiful as well 🙂

I’m visiting Vancouver next January yay! Feel so excited to try all the things you’ve listed here. Definitely gonna visit Cartems for those yummy donuts!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments/replies are added to this post.

One Day in Vancouver: 8 Fantastic 24 Hour Itineraries

Some people have one day in Vancouver on their way to another destination. If you arrive the day before your Alaskan cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia , or heading north to Whistler, you’ll have a tough choice of things to do.

Vancouver is the largest city on the west coast and a popular destination for travel. However, it’s also a very expensive city. With a extended itinerary, you’ll enjoy the sights and best attractions. However, one day will leave you stretched.

Vancouver Weather

Getting around vancouver, option 1: grouse mountain and capilano suspension bridge, option 2: stanley park, train and aquarium, option 3: day trip to whistler, option 4: granville island and science world, option 5: lynn canyon, shipyards district and cypress coaster, option 6: vancouver lookout, flyover canada, gastown and seaplane tour, option 7: hop-on hop-off bus and whale watching, option 8: sea to sky gondola and hiking at lighthouse park.

While you may be limited on time, you’ll have endless choices of what to do, based on your interests. Being a local, I know all the best places to go and what visitors want to see.

So, plan to rise early to pack more into your day. Kickstart your day with a breakfast wrap and coffee from Tim Hortons. With multiple locations around downtown, you’ll enjoy Canada’s best tasting coffee.

Planning your trip?

• 🏠 Find your perfect accommodation on Booking.com
• 🎡 Make your trip more excited with Viator

Vancouver is known for its mild and often rainy weather. This vibrant city is situated on Canada’s west coast and experiences a temperate oceanic climate.

The winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, while the summers are pleasantly warm.

However, rain is a frequent companion throughout the year, with drizzles and showers being a common occurrence. Vancouverites are accustomed to wet environments.

If you’re visiting outside of the summer months, pack a compact umbrella and raincoat, and wear waterproof shoes.

Vancouver has a decent public transportation system, with Skytrain, a sea bus, and a TransLink bus service. If you stay downtown, you can use the Skytrain, Vancouver’s rapid transit system from the Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Hop on the “Canada Line” and ride the train to the last stop called Waterfront Station. The journey takes 25 minutes and costs under CAD 10.

The city center provides a good option to access most attractions, especially without a car. Around False Creek, you can use little ferries to cross the water.

Here are some options to enjoy Vancouver in one day. While you can reach most of these options via public transit, you will need a rental vehicle to access Whistler and Squamish (options 3 and 8).

This option combines two popular attractions on the north shore. You can catch a complimentary shuttle from Canada Place or various downtown hotels to North Vancouver.

The shuttle stops at both attractions, so you can decide which one to visit first. During the summer, the Capilano Suspension Bridge opens at 8:30 am and Grouse Mountain 30 minutes later.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. The park’s main attraction is the breathtaking suspension bridge spanning the Capilano River, but there’s much more to explore.

Take a walk through the treetops on the Treetop Adventure, or test your bravery on the Cliffwalk, a narrow walkway suspended from a granite cliff.

The park also offers complimentary rainforest ecotours, a variety of forest trails, and an impressive collection of First Nations totem poles.

During the summer months, you’ll have the chance to see a collection of birds of prey up close with experienced handlers. Expect to spend up to three hours exploring and spend the balance of your day at Grouse Mountain.

You’ll reach the gondola ride to Grouse Mountain, a little north on Capilano Road. Grouse Mountain, on the north shore mountains, is a breathtaking destination that offers an array of exciting activities during the summer months.

If you’re a fitness fanatic, hike the challenging Grouse Grind , a grueling Stairmaster trail to the top, instead of the gondola.

While you can’t beat the panoramic views of Vancouver, this mountain invites visitors to embark on thrilling adventures. Nature enthusiasts can explore numerous hiking trails, with a chance to see deer and black bears along the way.

The mountain also boasts thrilling outdoor activities such as zip-lining, paragliding, and a gravity-defying aerial ropes course. For families, the bird of prey show wows the audience with its fast-moving birds.

Nearby, a bear enclosure contains two grizzly bears (Grinder and Coola), raised on Grouse Mountain since they were orphaned.

For a thrilling adventure, purchase a helicopter ride. You can choose three routes, offering stunning views of the landscape and downtown Vancouver.

A one-day itinerary to Stanley Park makes the perfect itinerary for those visiting Vancouver with children. Located downtown, you won’t need to travel far to get there.

Stanley Park spans over 1,000 acres, and this urban oasis offers a plethora of highlights. The park’s seawall, a scenic 5.5-mile path, allows you to walk or ride, and numerous nearby shops offer inexpensive bike rentals.

If you prefer a more leisurely visit, a horse carriage offers a tour around the park. Popular stopping points include Prospect Point, Siwash Rock, Lost Lagoon, Prospect Point, and the First Nations totem poles.

The Totem Poles, intricately carved by indigenous artists, tell the stories of the First Nations people. Other highlights include the beautiful Rose Garden, Second Beach, and the serene Beaver Lake.

Located near the Aquarium, the Stanley Park train offers a 15-minute ride on a 20-gauge track through the forest. Sometimes, the park embellishes the train route, depending on the holiday.

On a warm day, spend some time at Second Beach, or let the children play at the water park. The Tea House Restaurant offers a beautiful setting for lunch or dinner and has a great west coast menu with many seafood options.

One of the biggest attractions of Stanley Park is the Vancouver Aquarium, nestled amongst the tall trees. As Canada’s largest Aquarium, it offers more than just fish tanks.

Its world-class marine science center features a west coast exhibit, an Amazon gallery, and a wet lab. The wet lab encourages visitors to hold and touch sea stars, sea urchins, crabs, and anemones.

Inside a humid exhibit, you’ll see tropical birds and the popular sloth that hangs lazily in trees. The colorful tree frogs are also a big hit amongst children.

The highlight for many visitors is the vast jellyfish exhibit. There’s something very calming in watching these mesmerizing jellies float around a tank.

Whistler might best be known for hosting many of the events for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. However, Whistler and Blackcomb make great summer destinations for nature enthusiasts.

In summer, visitors to Whistler can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities. Hiking and mountain biking are incredibly popular, and it’s also an excellent destination for golfing.

To reach Whistler, the Sea to Sky Highway provides a picturesque route winding along the coastline. You’ll need a rental car, and the journey takes approximately two hours one way.

During the drive, you can stop at various viewpoints to see waterfalls, enjoy the views, or take an impromptu hike.

Notable attractions include Shannon Falls, the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia, Brandywine Falls, the Britannia Mine Museum, and the Whistler train wreck.

In Whistler, the Peak to Peak Gondola is considered a must-visit experience for anyone exploring during the summer months. The gondola, considered an engineering marvel, connects the summits of Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain.

Spanning a 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) distance, you’ll enjoy a unique opportunity to witness the stunning alpine landscapes from a birds-eye perspective.

Additionally, it serves as a gateway to countless hiking trails, allowing adventurers to explore the rugged terrain and ancient forests that blanket the mountains.

The panoramic vistas from the gondola cabins are stunning. You can even opt to ride the gondola with a glass bottom floor.

By riding the Peak to Peak Gondola experience, you’ll have access to the Cloudraker Skybridge, a fantastic suspension bridge in BC.

After your outdoor adventures, head to Whistler Village, a community of great shopping and restaurants. For dinner, top marks go to Caramba, which offers traditional Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate setting.

Granville Island and Science World provide excellent venues for families. To reach Granville Island from downtown Vancouver, use the False Creek ferries, Aquabus, or hop on a TransLink bus.

Once you arrive at Granville Island, you can enjoy several family-friendly activities.

By wandering through the Granville Island Public Market, you’ll find fresh produce, gourmet foods, baked goods, and artisan products. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite and enjoy the ambiance of the busy marketplace.

Don’t miss Lee’s Donuts, a favorite amongst locals. Being a popular venue, expect to wait in a long line to purchase your treats.

Beyond the Granville Island Market, the Kids Market provides a venue made for children. Its multi-level building features toy stores, clothing shops, and a giant indoor adventure zone.

The water park’s water features and sprays provide a welcoming cooling-off area during the summer.

Granville Island is home to art galleries, craft studios, and artisan workshops. You can explore the unique shops or watch artists at work. Don’t miss the silk weaving studio or the Granville Island Broom Co.

During the warmer months, grab some food and enjoy the live music and waterfront views. While you’re a stone’s throw from the downtown area, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.

Granville Island is a favorite amongst locals and tourists with its bustling market, artisan shops, and studios. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the crowds.

You can take the Aquabus or Granville Island ferry to Science World from Granville Island. Its giant golf ball is an iconic landmark on Vancouver’s False Creek.

Science World is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an engaging and educational experience. Its interactive exhibits provide silly fun, no matter what your age.

From the wonders of human anatomy to the mysteries of outer space, the exhibits make learning a fun and immersive adventure.

Science World and Granville Island offer great Vancouver rainy-day activities if the weather forecast isn’t favorable.

If you have time at the end of the day, walk around False Creek to Olympic Village. This area housed the athletes during the games. Now a trendy neighborhood, you can see two 5-meter-high sparrows at the main plaza.

This option combines the fun of the outdoors with exploring a waterfront district. This Vancouver one-day itinerary provides a day outing without breaking the bank.

Located in North Vancouver, Lynn Canyon offers a non-paying alternative to the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge. While smaller in size, it’s a fun attraction to enjoy amongst the breathtaking waterfalls and a picturesque canyon setting.

The park also boasts numerous hiking trails catering to various skill levels. Swimming in the cool waters of Lynn Canyon’s swimming holes is a refreshing option during the summer months.

Further west, a trip up Cypress Mountain provides an exhilarating summer activity, a mountain coaster. Popular in Alpine European countries, the Cypress Eagle Coaster isn’t for the faint of heart.

As Canada’s longest mountain coaster ride, you can hit speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/hr) on the 1.1 miles (1.7 km) run.

During the ride, you’ll drop 915 feet (279 meters), and openings in the forest allow for beautiful views of the city below. The ride is reasonably priced and suitable for families.

So, choose from a single ride, or do the double run to maximize your fun on the mountain. Riders reach the start of the ride by ski gondolas.

The Shipyards District provides a vibrant destination hopping with people in summer between the two areas. This revitalized waterfront area offers a great place to enjoy the local cuisine.

With its waterfront views and ample outdoor seating, the Shipyards District is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Plus, you can enjoy delicious food, shop for unique treasures, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Vancouver.

This Vancouver one-day itinerary is ideal for those who prefer to stay in the downtown core. All these activities are within walking distance of the most popular hotels, and you can do them in any order you choose.

Gastown is a historic district known for its charming cobblestone streets and Victorian architecture. One of its notable attractions is the unique steam clock.

The Gastown steam clock, built in 1977, runs on steam power below the city and chimes every quarter hour. As one of the only functioning steam clocks in the world, it has become an iconic symbol of the Gastown area.

Beyond its clock, the district offers trendy shopping and places to get souvenirs. When you’re hungry, you can’t beat Pourhouse, a vintage-inspired gastropub serving classic cocktails and flavorful comfort food.

Near Gastown, the Vancouver Lookout is an iconic observation deck offering views of the cruise port. Standing 553 feet (168 meters) above ground, it provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, mountains, and Burrard Inlet.

From this elevated vantage point, you can enjoy a panoramic perspective of Vancouver’s beauty and landmarks. The best part; your ticket lasts all day, so you can return at dusk to watch the sunset and twinkling city lights.

A bit further west, you’ll find the FlyOver Canada ride at the end of Canada Place. The thrilling ride allows you to see other areas of the country, which are projected onto a giant circular screen.

While the FlyOver Canada film runs year-round, you can sometimes enjoy other showings. FlyOver Hawaii and FlyOver Iceland feature gorgeous sceneries, enticing you to travel.

You’ll find the Olympic Cauldron, Pixel Orca, and seaplane docks heading west from Canada Place. Here, you can purchase a seaplane tour, which offers a unique perspective of seeing Vancouver.

If you want to cram in all the main attractions of Vancouver, there’s no better way than the Hop-on Hop-off bus.

The Vancouver Hop-on Hop-off bus offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s top attractions.

While you may not have enough time at each stop, the guided tour lets you see it all in just 24 hours. The narrated tour comes in seven languages, so remember to bring a smartphone and earbuds.

A loop takes one hour and starts as early as 8:45 am, with the last loop starting at 5:15 pm. Spend as much time as you want before rejoining the bus again.

During the ride, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the open-top double-decker bus and informative commentary on Vancouver’s history and landmarks.

Popular in most cities, the hop-on hop-off bus gives you the freedom to get off at any of the 20 designated stops. Must-see sights along the route include Stanley Park, Granville Island, Canada Place, and Gastown.

The ticket is valid for a full day, allowing you to discover Vancouver’s diverse neighborhoods, parks, and cultural sites at your own pace. If you’re mobility challenged, the bus tour will enable you to see the sights without getting off at stops.

At your stop on Granville Island, be sure to take a whale-watching tour. These three-hour excursions head out to the San Juan and Gulf Islands, with a chance to see Orca whales and other marine wildlife.

You can choose from a small zodiac with fewer people or a larger catamaran vessel. While the smaller boats provide faster speed, you could be in for a bumpy ride. If you’re prone to seasickness, book the larger vessel or use a motion sickness patch.

I created this last option for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Like the Cloudraker Skybridge in Whistler, the Sea to Sky Gondola is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Located in Squamish, about an hour’s drive northwest of downtown Vancouver, this scenic gondola ride offers breathtaking views of Stawamus Chief, Shannon Falls, and the sparkling waters of Howe Sound. Like the Whistler day trip, you’ll need a rental car.

Ascending 885 meters (2,900 feet) above sea level, the gondola ride itself is an exhilarating experience. However, it provides access to various outdoor activities and trails at the peak.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore a network from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, with its breathtaking 360-degree views, adds an extra dose of excitement.

On the way back to Vancouver, stop at Lighthouse Park, a beautiful coastal location near Horseshoe Bay. This beautiful park offers a network of trails that wind through lush forests, leading visitors to stunning ocean viewpoints and an iconic lighthouse.

The trails are well-maintained and suitable for various skill levels, making them accessible for everyone. So, whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Lighthouse Park delivers tranquility minutes away from Vancouver’s cityscape.

One Day In Vancouver Itinerary Add-Ons

No itinerary is set in stone. Every trip should be about what you want to do. So, adapt the above and choose things that appeal to you.

If you’re not ready to commit to an option or you have time to expand on your day, consider adding one of the following:

• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Rent a bike and ride on the Stanley Park sea wall – choose from a standard bike or get an electric one.
• Aquabus tour of False Creek – see Vancouver from a colorful boat.
• Museum of Anthropology – The University of British Columbia (UBC) museum focuses on arts and world cultures.
• Shopping on Robson Street – located downtown, this trendy street offers the best shopping.
• English Bay Beach – provides the perfect place to watch a sunset.

As you can see, Vancouver offers a lot of exciting attractions for every kind of traveler. While one day isn’t enough to see all it has to offer, after one visit, hopefully, it will entice you to return for a longer stay.

Privacy Overview

One Day in Vancouver Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Vancouver, Canada

Ah, Vancouver. The jewel of British Columbia. This incredible city is one of the most diverse in the world and constantly has an exceptionally high quality of life. Coming over here means encountering loads of different cultures, enjoying incredible and pristine nature just outside of the city and making the most of what the bustling metropolis has to offer. In short, you have a lot of choices in front of you. This one day in Vancouver itinerary will help you determine what to see if you’re limited by time, so dig in and see why you’ll absolutely love this destination.

What’s the best time to visit Vancouver?

Depends on what your goal here is. If you’re a winter sports fanatic, the city will be a paradise for you during that time of the year – after all, Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010. Spring and autumn offer great prices for all types of accommodation, so if you want to get max value for your money, September or April/May would be the perfect time to visit. Summers are really not that hot, so you can enjoy your days then too, but you will need to book a room at least a couple of weeks in advance and the prices will go up. No matter when you come, though, you can expect some kind of festival or event in the city.

A few facts about Vancouver

Indigenous people had been living here for almost 10,000 years before first European settlers came in the 19 th century. Today, it is very interesting to note that more than one half (52%) of Vancouver’s inhabitants do NOT speak English as their primary language. Understandable, since about one third of them are of Chinese descent. Additionally, this is the most densely populated city in Canada, so getting around Vancouver without a car may be a good idea. Also, the name Vancouver comes from George Vancouver, an explorer and officer of the British navy. He explored much of North America’s western coast, especially British Columbia.

One Day in Vancouver Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Vancouver.

Start your day in Stanley Park

To fill up on energy and soak up the city’s atmosphere, start your one day in Vancouver with a breath of fresh air. And there are plenty of things to do in Stanley Park, the third biggest park in North America, suited just for that. If you fancy a morning jog, head along the Seawall to enjoy the best sights of the ocean. The locals absolutely love it here, so you will see many of them trying to stay in shape in some way. If you won’t be joining them, check out the totem poles representing the First Nations at Brockton Point. From there, follow the Stanley Park Drive westwards to reach the Vancouver Aquarium .   

Head to downtown Vancouver

While there aren’t any sights per se to see here, downtown Vancouver is a great place to do some shopping and only a short drive away from Stanley Park. This is where you’ll see why this city has some of the best living conditions in the world , and if you happen to be in town during Christmas season, make sure you check out the Christmas Market . Obviously, you can grab something to eat while here, but there is another great place for that a little later on in this itinerary. Before that, though, head up north.

Fly over Canada

If this is your first time in Canada and you want to experience as much of the country as possible in one go, FlyOver Canada is the solution. This high-tech Vancouver attraction will take you on an incredible virtual tour of the country and will utilize special effects to make you feel like you’re really flying over the most beautiful examples of Canadian nature (think 4d cinemas, but better because you are actually suspended in your seat). The whole thing lasts less than half an hour, so the time you invest here will be well worth it. 

Climb the Vancouver Lookout

After the ride is over, you can go and climb up the Vancouver Lookout . It’s very close by and you can get onto its panoramic deck which is 450 feet (170m) high. A truly spectacular 360-degrees view awaits you! You can also get a tour in multiple languages here and hear the story of the city, how it developed over the years and learn about its surroundings. Another Vancouver attraction that does not necessarily take up much of your time, but brings you spectacular results.

Walk through Gastown

Right below the lookout, you will see the historic part of the city, the place from which it all began. But what exactly are the things to do in Gastown? Well, Gastown Steam Clock is this place’s most famous attraction, although it’s not really that old – it was built in 1977. Walking the cobblestone streets of this area is also quite an experience, maybe one of the best things to do alone in Vancouver. You can see the mix of all aspects of life that developed through history around here and maybe even find a place to visit in the evening because the bars and clubs here are an essential part of Vancouver nightlife.

Visit Granville Island

Just southwest from the city centre, Granville Island is a great place to visit if you want to get that urban vibe. You can get there by taking the bus no. 50 from Gastown. A former industrial district, this part of the city has been turned into a vibrant neighbourhood with loads of art, cafes and small shops. Granville Island Public Market is definitely something you should visit while here, especially if you’re looking for a place where you can have a nice lunch or grab something to eat – loads of excellent fresh products will stir up the foodie in you!

Hop aboard an Aquabus!

Still wondering what to do in Vancouver? It’s simple – after lunch, board one of the rainbow-coloured boats that patrol the False Creek. These Aquabuses provide you with an excellent way to get around Vancouver without a car and to relax and enjoy the city skyline for a bit from a unique perspective. And it’s not expensive either – only 16 dollars for a day pass. The stops are all near the city centre, so you never have to worry about getting lost. Just enjoy the ride and let the fact that you are on your one day in Vancouver sink in. Great feeling, isn’t it?

Queen Elizabeth Park

From Granville Island, head southeast towards Little Mountain. This is the highest spot in town and there you will find Queen Elizabeth Park, an absolutely stunning park with loads of beautiful flowers, pieces of art and fantastic view for you to enjoy. It doesn’t get crowded here, so you’ll get to enjoy some peace and quiet and relax before concluding your day.

Things to do in Vancouver at night

Still have energy? Great, then it’s time to check what Vancouver nightlife has to offer. You won’t be disappointed, especially because of the various cultures that permeate the town which guarantee you’ll never be bored in Vancouver.

Have your dinner in the dark

If you’re looking for a place where you can have a memorable dinner, you should seriously consider going to the Dark Table restaurant. You will eat in complete darkness and get a sense of what it’s like to be blind. On the plus side, your senses of smell and taste will be enhanced, so you will be able to enjoy your food more. Just be prepared for a messy dinner, considering the circumstances. A unique experience.

Party hard on Granville Street

Granville Street in downtown Vancouver is THE place to be if you’re looking for a place to dance the night away. Loads of bars and some of the best nightclubs in the city are located here, so you can take in a bit of everything. Commodore Ballroom, for example, has hosted some of the most famous artists in the world and there’s always something happening here, so you may want to check it out if you’re around. The Belmont Bar is also a place worth visiting, but as you walk along the street, you’re bound to find something you like.

Chill out in Yaletown

Not exactly a party animal? No problem! You still won’t be bored in Vancouver. Head to Yaletown and find yourself a place where you can chill and enjoy yourself a nice cocktail. Yaletown is the place where you can also go celebrity spotting , and its fancy bars make it an ideal place for those who want to look good when going out. Opus Bar is just the place for that, while the Cobalt is slightly to the east of Yaletown, but it has a great sandwich place called the Boxcart where you can also get some fine craft beers. This is as relaxed as nights out get.

Where to stay in Vancouver?

L’Hermitage Hotel

788 Richards Street, V6B 3A4 Vancouver

L’Hermitage Hotel is located at the very centre of Vancouver and offers a whole bunch of features you don’t really get in other four-star hotels. Saltwater pool, garden patio, a library to go with the hotel’s business centre and Italian marble in every room’s bathroom guarantee an extremely comfortable if not luxurious stay. You can even get a fireplace in some of the rooms, perfect for cold winter nights.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Rosewood Hotel Georgia

801 West Georgia, V6C 1P7 Vancouver

A five star hotel in downtown Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia has everything you need for a memorable vacation. Their indoor saltwater pool is fantastic, and the heated floors in your bathroom will make you feel like you’re in a spa. A variety of baked products and great sandwiches can be found in the Bar Café, while the Hawksworth Restaurant will allow you to try the best of modern Canadian cuisine.

Residence Inn by Mariott

1234 Hornby Street, V6Z 1W2 Vancouver

Beautifully designed, Residence Inn by Marriot will provide you with comfortable rooms that contain a fully equipped kitchen. Not only that, but their indoor pool and their hot tub are a great way to relax, especially if you’re travelling with your special someone. Just outside downtown Vancouver, this hotel will be your home away from home and get you prime value for the money you spend.

Samesun Vancouver

1018 Granville Street, V6Z 1L5 Vancouver

For younger travellers (or those who want a good hostel experience), Samesun is the way to go. You get a full bar and breakfast every day, and ice hockey fans will be delighted to know that you can get tickets here for the Canucks’ games at a lower price than usual. It should be mentioned that you can also get private rooms with lockers here, which is a nice feature. Located close to the centre of the city, this is the perfect starting point from which to explore Vancouver.

Day trips from Vancouver

No matter if you want to enjoy pristine nature, activities in the snow or learn something about a new culture, this city and its surroundings will accommodate you. Thanks to its excellent location, you don’t really have to drive very far for your day trip from Vancouver, and you can even hop across the border to visit the United States. No matter where you go, though, you can expect the scenery to be absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. Vancouver scenic drives are especially famous in Canada. So check out the suggestions we’ve prepared for you and prepare for an adventure you won’t forget.

Extra tips for visiting Vancouver

Tips are expected pretty much everywhere, from restaurants and bars to taxis and even hairdressers. And it’s not a small tip either, at least compared to quite a few other cities – about 20% is usually the appropriate amount.

If you’re a sports fan, you can get tickets for sporting events in Vancouver for half the price if you buy them on the same day when the match is played at the Vancouver Visitors’ Centre. Just look for the “Tickets Tonight” deal.In case of an emergency, the number you want to dial is 911, just like in the US.

Drinking age varies in different parts of Canada, but it’s either 18 or 19. You WILL have to be able to prove your age in bars and restaurants, while many nightclubs will not allow minors in.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in  Vancouver Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

[…] coast around Vancouver is mesmerizingly beautiful and offers something for everyone. Nature in its most pristine form, […]

Going on a cruise to the from inside passage from Vancouver. Where would be the best place to stay , reasonably priced for a party of three adults?

Well, definitely check Booking.com. We’ve listed our top picks in the post, but you might find something else that suits you more.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Top 10 Things to Do in Vancouver in One Day

Exploring Vancouver in one day can be the perfect beginning to a longer trip through Canada, or even just a quick stop before hitting the Sea to Sky Highway up to Whistler.

Vancouver is nicely situated between the mountains and the sea, making it an ideal location for city travelers and adventure seekers alike.

If you’re short on time but full of ambition, you can see many of the amazing things this city has to offer, even with just one day in Vancouver.  

To help you cover as much ground as possible in Vancouver in one day, I’ve put together this list of must-see places along with some useful tips. 

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where is Vancouver?

Vancouver is located in western Canada just north of the Washington state border in British Columbia.

Flights into Vancouver from nearby Seattle or Portland are short, about one hour, and mostly affordable.

You can usually find these flights for less than $100 USD.

If you’re coming from farther away, Vancouver’s international airport is located only about 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver. 

Tip: The places you’ll want to see in Vancouver in one day are a bit spread out. I highly recommend renting a car from the airport. It’ll be worth the extra money, not to mention a huge time saver. Having a car will also help you see as much of Vancouver in one day as possible. 

This guide to Vancouver in one day is intended to help you enjoy as much of Vancouver as possible in a limited amount of time.

That being said, take your time as you explore the city. It’s not necessary to race around, you can always plan a return visit if there’s more you’d like to see.

I’ve included a few Vancouver tours up above if you’d like to leave the planning and transportation to someone else.

1. Visit Canada Place

Canada Place is a large pier located on the waterfront in downtown Vancouver.

The pier juts out into the Burrard Inlet and is the perfect place to get a view the city and surrounding mountains.

As I’m sure you’ve guessed, it’s also a great spot for photos.

Tip: Just about all of Vancouver is beautiful and photogenic. Make sure you are too. What I mean is, wear something you won’t regret being photographed in all day.

This is also where cruise ships dock during their Vancouver stops, so you may run into large crowds from time to time depending on the season.

Up on the 2nd level, there is a really cool ride called Flyover Canada.

The ride simulates you flying over the country from coast to coast. I didn’t get to try it during my visit, but I really wish I had.

You can purchase tickets online for Flyover Canada for $28.05.

Tip: It can get a bit windy and chilly as you make your way to the end of the pier. Bring a light jacket with you to stay warm.

There are restrooms located on the 2nd floor near Flyover Canada, so take advantage of the facilities before you head out to your next stop.

Tip: If you want to get a view of Vancouver from up high, make the short 5 minute walk over to the Vancouver Lookout .

The Vancouver Lookout is an observation deck that sits about 550 feet above the city. The surrounding views are incredible as you can see all of Vancouver, the surrounding mountains, and the ocean.

Admission to the observation deck is about $18.25 per person.

2. Hang out in Gastown

If you’re planning a fun night out with some drinks, head to Gastown.

Gastown is found just east of Canada Place south of the train station that runs along the waterfront.

This neighborhood is known for its whistling steam clock (pictured above) and its trendy bar and restaurant scene.

You’ll also find plenty of souvenir shops, art galleries, and coffee shops.

This is a fun area to walk around in at night to see the steam clock lit up and stop into some (or many) of the cocktail lounges and wine bars. 

3. Granville Island Public Market

Granville Island is a shopping district in Vancouver and one of the top things to do while exploring the city. This is especially the case if you love finding excuses to try great food.

Also, Granville Island is actually a peninsula and not an island, but we’ll play along.

Granville “Island” is home to a very popular public food market with over 50 vendors.

You can find everything from fruits and vegetables, to homemade gelato, to freshly made donuts. 

This is a great place to head when you’re hungry and looking to try some sweets and discover local restaurants.

The island is also known for its large artist community.

If you’d like to support local artists, visit one of the island’s many art galleries or theaters.

The island is also home to its own Granville Island Brewery. The brewery is open daily and tours are available throughout the day on a first come first serve basis. 

4. Go Hiking at Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park is a peaceful neighborhood park found in West Vancouver across the Lions Gate Bridge.

You can get there in about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver. Lighthouse Park makes a perfect stop for those wanting to add some physical activity to their Vancouver in one day itinerary.

If you arrive early, there will be plenty of parking, though finding a spot later in the day will be challenging.

The park consists of about 182 acres of rainforests, hiking trails, and the Point Atkinson Lighthouse found along the shore.

The park is full of massive trees creating plenty of shade along the trails.

Most people bring their dogs to the park too, so if you’re like me, you’ll be overjoyed watching all the dogs running past you on the trail. 

5. Explore Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a majorly popular public park just north of downtown and is a must see even if visiting Vancouver in one day.

The park is one of the largest city parks in North America at over 1,000 acres.

The park itself is almost entirely surrounded by water, creating beautiful views no matter where you are.

The seawall surrounding the park has a busy biking and running trail, popular with locals and tourists alike.

You can rent a bike inside the park for just a few dollars if you’d like to tackle the 5.5 mile trail.

I recommend setting aside at least a couple hours to explore Stanley Park.

There are plenty of activities and things to see and do inside the park.

Visitors can go swimming, hiking, biking, see the various wildlife including plants, animals, and trees, visit the totems or aquarium, and even ride a train.

If you have a car, navigating through the park will be easy and there is plenty of parking at the various attractions.

You can pick up a parking pass at a machine in any of the lots. Parking will cost just a few dollars for two to three hours. 

If you’re looking for more outdoor time during your visit to Vancouver, consider going for a hike or bike ride in Queen Elizabeth Park.

Queen Elizabeth Park is located about a 10 minute drive south of downtown Vancouver.

Another great option nearby is Grouse Mountain located in North Vancouver.

Grouse Mountain is a great destination in the winter for those wanting to spend time skiing, snowboarding, or sledding.

For those of us who are a little less adventurous, there’s also a sky ride that will take you up to the top of the mountain on an enclosed tram.

6. View the Totems

Located on the southeastern side of Stanley Park, you will find an area dedicated to first nations art and totem poles.

The nine totems are actually one of the most visited attractions in Vancouver.

The city began collecting the totems back in the 1920s, purchasing four from Vancouver Island’s Alert Bay.

A few years later they purchased several more from the Haida Gwaii (Islands of the Haida people).

These original totems are no longer on display and have since been moved to museums. 

The totems you see in Stanley Park today are replicas of these original totems, some of which have been recreated by Haida artists.

These replicas have also been hand carved and painted. This was one of my favorite stops inside Stanley Park and highly suggest making time to stop here.

There is also a bike rental area here, so this makes the perfect first stop if you’re planning to bike the seawall or park trails. 

7. Meet the animals at Vancouver Aquarium

You can also find the Vancouver Aquarium inside Stanley Park.

The aquarium features marine, air, and land animals from around the world.

Some of the highlights include the butterflies, sea otters, and penguins. There’s even a rain forest exhibit with birds and sloths. 

The aquarium is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  In the summer extended hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. A single adult ticket is about $38. You can purchase tickets ahead of time by visiting their website . 

8. Try the Poutine

One of my favorite things about visiting Vancouver is getting to eat all the poutine I can handle for the duration of my visit.

Actually, if you’re in the country long enough, I suggest trying it from several different places.

Each restaurant will have their own take on this local favorite, so be sure to enjoy as many varieties as you can.

Here is a quick list of some popular favorites for poutine in Vancouver: Mean Poutine , Belgian Fries, and Wallflower .

I also mention a few others in my Restaurants in Vancouver section below. 

The photo of the delicious poutine above is actually from Howe Sound Brewing in Squamish, which is about one hour north of Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway .

If you make it up there, you must stop in to try their poutine. It was fantastic. 

9. Walk Around the Tree Tops Adventure and Living Forest

The Tree Tops Adventure and Living Forest is located inside the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park about 20 minutes north of downtown Vancouver. 

While the park is famous for its suspension bridge, there are lots of other things to see during your visit as well.

On the opposite side of the suspension bridge, you’ll find long wooden walking paths taking you through the forest floor.

You’ll also find plenty of signs with information posted about the plant life and wildlife in the area.

Tickets to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park are about $47 for adults. You can purchase tickets online ahead of time at their website . 

10. Walk Across the Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is the most popular attraction in the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, not to mention one of the busiest tourist attractions in Vanvouver.

The bridge spans 450 feet across the Capilano River and measures 230 feet high. The view from the bridge is beautiful, so take your time going back and forth to enjoy the scenery.

I recommend planning your visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park either at the very beginning or the very end of your Vancouver in one day itinerary.

The suspension bridge is very popular with tourists, so if you want lighter crowds while crossing the bridge visit when it’s less busy.

You will also get better pictures if you visit at these times as well. My visit was in the late afternoon and I definitely saw fewer people crossing the bridge near closing time. 

Restaurants in Vancouver

Vancouver is a busy town with an exciting food scene. Many of their hottest restaurants feature fusion cuisine, seafood, or local favorites.

Since you’ll be visiting Vancouver in one day, I figure that gives you at least three chances to sample some of the amazing places to eat and drink in Vancouver .

Try to branch out a bit and give something new a go while you’re in town. Here is a shortlist of my suggestions:

• Japadog : Japadog is a popular restaurant chain in Vancouver. They serve hot dogs with a Japanese twist with toppings like seaweed, teriyaki sauce and mayo. They have a stand right outside the Vancouver airport as you’re heading toward the car rental pick up. Grab one to go on your way out of the airport. 
• La Cantina : This is a great taco shop located near Granville Street. They serve homemade authentic style meats on their tacos, including several vegetarian options. They also have a good selection of salsas to choose from. 
• Megabite : A great little pizza by the slice restaurant located next door to La Cantina. They have just about any kind of slice of pizza you can imagine. Pizza is good, grab a couple to sample the different varieties. Their Granville and Nelson location is open daily til 4:00 a.m. 
• Fritz European Fry House: If you’re going to be in Vancouver, you’re going to need to try the poutine. Fritz is considered by many to serve the best poutine in the city. Make a stop here a priority during your visit. 
• La Belle Patate : If you are ready to up your poutine game, head to La Belle Patate. They serve many variations of their poutine and even have an all you can eat option. 

Vancouver Nightlife

Vancouver has several fun neighborhoods spread across the city that make great destinations for a night out.

From rock n roll bars to tiki bars, to dive bars, you’ll always find a great spot for drinks in this city. Here is a shortlist of some of the places I recommend:

• The American : This was my favorite bar in Vancouver. This is a large place with plenty of seating, mellow vibe, about 8 pinball machines, and great music.  
• The Moose: This is another rock n roller bar with great music. They also serve pub-style food if you get hungry. Pretty chill vibe here and service was good. 
• The Morrissey Pub: Didn’t get to stop here during my visit to Vancouver, but it came highly recommended. They serve both food and great cocktails. On weekends the DJ plays indie rock, new wave, and Brit-pop. 
• The Shameful Tiki Room : A classic tiki bar with super friendly bartenders and strong fruity cocktails. Reservations are strongly recommended. 

Hotels in Vancouver

If you’re looking for a place to stay after exploring Vancouver in one day, you’ll find plenty of hotel options right in downtown.

From high-end luxury to the super affordable, you’ll have no problem finding a hotel for any budget in Vancouver. 

To get you started, here is a shortlist of some of my recommended Vancouver hotels:

• Holiday Inn Vancouver Downtown : My favorite budget hotel chain with large, clean rooms. The hotel is centrally located in downtown Vancouver, just a few blocks from the waterfront. 
• Sheraton Vancouver Wall Center : A mid-range Marriott property located in downtown Vancouver close to Stanley Park. 
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Moderately priced and very nice Marriott property located a block from the water in downtown Vancouver. The rooms are very nice with huge windows, and the restaurant downstairs is quite good if you don’t have time to go out. 
• Fairmont Pacific Rim : Located along Vancouver’s waterfront area, the hotel has large lavishly appointed guest rooms with fantastic views from the higher floors. 
• Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver : Luxury hotel in downtown Vancouver featuring spacious well-appointed rooms, a beautiful pool, and impeccable service. 

I hope you’ve found this Vancouver in One Day travel guide helpful in planning your own visit. If you enjoyed this post I would love it if you shared it. It really helps me a lot. Thanks for reading.

Related Posts

15 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Vancouver

These photos to inspire you to visit Vancouver are sure to get you closer to…

Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip: Vancouver to Whistler

For those looking to experience some of British Columbia’s natural beauty outside Vancouver, a Sea…

Exploring Vancouver in one day can be the perfect beginning to a longer trip through…

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Vancouver One Day Tour

See the highlights of Vancouver in a day with our self-guided One Day Tour

Are you only in Vancouver for a day? You can see many highlights of Vancouver in a day with our self-guided Vancouver one day tour. You can either follow our suggested itinerary, or use the many resources on this site to make changes reflecting your own interests.

The key to seeing more of of the city in one day is to plan ahead and follow a logical path from one location to another. Even using public transit, you can accomplish a surprising amount of sightseeing in a single day. We recommend purchasing a day pass because you can ride the system all day long without stopping to purchase additional fares and it costs less.

Want more ideas? Pick any single day's itinerary from our Two Day or Three Day Tour that matches your interests. You can also add an additional day to any of our suggested tours with a BC Ferries Day Trip or a Fort Langley Day Trip . Each one is a full day's outing.

Leg 1 - Take a walk through Gastown

Time: 1 Hour

Leg 2 - Ride the SeaBus and visit Lonsdale Quay Public Market

Time: 1½ Hours

Leg 3 - Stroll along the seawall in Stanley Park

Time: 2 Hours

Leg 4 - See Vancouver from the SkyTrain

Time: < 1 Hour

Leg 5 - Explore Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area and Simon Fraser University

Time: 3 Hours

If you are making your way back to downtown Vancouver catch bus #135 Burrard Station for the 50 minute ride back into downtown. If you are staying in North Burnaby, New Westminster or Surrey take the #145 bus back to Production Station and navigate back to your hotel, or if staying near Metrotown take bus #144 Metrotown.

Total time for your Vancouver Day Tour: 9½ Hours plus hotel connections.

More Self-Guided Vancouver Day Tours

• Vancouver in Two Days
• Vancouver in Three Days

• See the complete line of Vancouver Experiences on Viator

Vancouver, Canada   Travel Guide

Courtesy of danbreckwoldt | Getty Images

1-day Itinerary in Vancouver, Canada

• 1-Day Itinerary
• All Things To Do
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Stanley Park Stanley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're walking along the north side of the Stanley Park Seawall, keep your eyes peeled for the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture that sits on a rock in the water. It's a Vancouver landmark. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This nearly 1,000-acre park on the tip of Vancouver's "thumb" (just north of the West End) is home to some of the city's favorite, most-visited attractions. In fact, you could easily spend more than a day here and still not see everything this urban oasis has to offer. If you want to experience the park the way the locals do, walk, cycle or jog around the nearly 20-mile seawall that hugs Vancouver's waterfront. The path starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre and ends at Spanish Banks Beach Park . If you're not up for the walk, you'll find several bike rental companies near the park. With your bike, you'll be able to explore the more than 17 miles of forest trails that are much less crowded than the rest of the park. Travelers recommend biking the South Creek Trail, which leads to the lily pad-covered Beaver Lake. If you're not up for all that exercise, you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage or hop on the train for a 15-minute ride through the forest. Recent visitors said the park offers a great escape from the city and has one of the prettiest seawall walks around.

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver Aquarium

Those in the know say the Vancouver Aquarium is definitely worth exploring, whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a little extra marine knowledge. As the home of more than 50,000 different animals across more than 30 exhibits, this is a great place to become acquainted with local animals as well as exotic creatures. But don't come here expecting SeaWorld: Past visitors say the aquarium's focus is more on interactive exhibits and education and less on choreographed animal performances. Different exhibits mimic various habitats, from the icy tanks of the Canada's Arctic exhibit to the colorful clownfish and intimidating black-tip reef sharks sheltered in the Tropics. Don't miss the Graham Amazon Gallery, a giant atrium where three-toed sloths and caimans take shelter from the hourly simulated rainstorms.

While some recent visitors comment on the steep cost of admission, they also say that if you schedule enough time, it's worth the price. 

Granville Island Granville Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The food market is the main draw here, but you'll also want to peruse the unique shops in the Net Loft building. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This former industrial site is now one of Vancouver's most beloved neighborhoods. Practically its own mini-city, Granville Island's former factories now house trendy restaurants, galleries and theaters. But the main draw here is the Granville Island Public Market, often described as one of the best markets in North America. Among the seemingly endless aisles of fresh produce and local crafts, you'll find a variety of food stalls selling everything from baked goods to authentic Mexican cuisine. If the weather is nice, try and grab a seat outside by the water. You can watch ferry boats putter back and forth in English Bay while enjoying the performances of the buskers who regularly play for market crowds. After filling up on market eats, head to the perpetually busy Kids Market. This playtopia sells toys and crafts and features an indoor play area. If you don't have kids in tow, visit Canada's first microbrewery –  Granville Island Brewing . You can enjoy a selection of ales and India pale ales.

Kitsilano Beach Kitsilano Beach free

When the weather's nice, follow Vancouverites down to the shores of English Bay to Kitsilano "Kits" Beach. Often compared to L.A. 's  Venice Beach , this shoreline along the northern edge of Kitsilano is the city's most popular swim spot, especially for the city's 20-something crowd. Kits is an accessible beach with a beach mat on-site and free water wheelchairs are available to borrow (on a first-come, first-served basis and you must make reservations in advance). When you're not relaxing on the sand or admiring the skyline views, you'll find areas for in-line skating and volleyball, along with tennis courts and a playground. Visitors do warn that the beach can get quite busy in summer, but it is clean and always has "good vibes." If you're in the mood for swim but the bay water is just a little too chilly for your liking, try the area's heated, saltwater Kitsilano Pool (open May to mid-September). Fido will be happy here, too, as there's dog parks and off-leash areas. You can also visit the nearby Vancouver Maritime Museum, which offers an educational respite from the summer sun. When you need to grab a refreshment, you'll find several concession stands as well as a more formal dining room at The Boathouse Restaurant.

You don't have to pay to access the beach, but you will have to pay for parking. Parking from April 1 to Sept. 30 will cost you CA$4 (about $3) hourly and CA$17 (about $13) daily. From Oct. 1 to March 31 hourly parking rates decrease to CA$3 (about $2.25); daily rates decrease to CA$9 (about $7). If you're traveling via public transportation, the No. 2 bus offers service between downtown and Kits Beach. Entrance to the pool will also cost you. Single-day admission for adults costs about CA$7 (about $5.25); youths ages 13 to 18 years old get in for around CA$5 (about $3.75) and children ages 5 to 12 enter for about CA$3 (about $2.25). Check out the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation  website  for more information on Kits Beach.

Popular Tours

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

(1373 reviews)

from $ 190.42

Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

(598 reviews)

from $ 156.90

Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

(487 reviews)

from $ 125.63

Explore More of Vancouver, Canada

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

What To Do When You Have One Day In Vancouver

Categories Canada

Vancouver is one of my favourite cities in the world. It reminds me of Wellington back home in New Zealand, but on steroids! Vancouver has everything- majestic mountains and quaint beaches, a bustling city and abundant wildlife.

Table of Contents

It satisfies both the adventurous traveller and the city slicker; with three ski mountains nearby, snow enthusiasts can hit the slopes within half an hour of leaving the city. For those who would rather shop, there are plenty of department stores and cute boutiques. It’s also a fantastic destination to visit solo .

Visitors often only spend a couple of days in Vancouver before setting off to explore the rest of Canada.

I’ve been to Vancouver several times but recently I visited Vancouver with my family and I had just one day to make the most of this picturesque Canadian city. I discovered it is possible to make the most of Vancouver in one day- you just need to plan well.

I’ve designed what I believe is the perfect itinerary if you have only one day in Vancouver.

Planning a trip to Canada? 50 free and cheap things to do in Banff National Park 7 must-do activities in Lake Louise

My Vancouver 1 day itinerary is well suited to solo travellers, couples, friend groups and families. This itinerary is also a fantastic option for those who are spending one day in Vancouver on foot – you can make the most of this city easily without a car and using public transport or hiring a bike.

If you have more time in Vancouver I’ve included some more things to do as well.

Here is my itinerary for how to spend the perfect 24 hours in Vancouver!

If you plan to visit Vancouver in one day, cycling the Stanley Park Seawall is a must!

One Day In Vancouver Itinerary

8:00 am – grab a coffee and doughnut from tim hortons.

Start your day the Vancouverite way! Canadians are very proud of this restaurant chain. There are over 4,000 locations throughout Canada so you shouldn’t have a problem finding a Timmies in Vancouver!

Be sure to get some Tim Bits – small doughnut balls that are covered in a variety of flavours. You’ve not been to Canada unless you’ve tried these.

9:00 am – Cycle the Stanley Park seawall

Situated a hop, skip and a jump from downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park is easily accessible and has been Vancouver’s “greenspace” for over 130 years. The park contains over 500,000 cedar, fir and hemlock trees, and is home to 500 wildlife species including bald eagles, bats, beavers, birdlife and raccoons.

It will take you approximately one hour to cycle around the seawall that surrounds Stanley Park, but longer if you want to explore the park and stop for photos.

There are several places you can hire bikes from, but the average price for a standard bike is $36 for a half-day and $48 for a full-day hire (plus taxes).

The price of hiring an e-bike is $65 for a half-day and $90 for a full day.

Where to hire a bike in Vancouver Yes Cycle Bike Rental is located near Stanley Park, while Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals is located in the city centre. Many rental companies will price-beat each other, so make sure you do your research to find the best deal.

12:00 pm – Have lunch at the Granville Island Public Market

It takes 30 minutes to cycle from the end of the Stanley Park seawall to the Granville Island Public Market.

Sample a variety of food from the stalls: homemade chocolate and fudge, salad and smoothies, bagels, seafood- the selection will put you in a food coma!

There are also several stalls where you can buy fresh produce if you want to make yourself a delicious, healthy meal for later.

Pick up some yummy fresh produce at the Granville Island markets

3:00 pm – Check out Vancouver’s street art

The street art in Vancouver certainly brightens up this rainy city (it rains on average 140 days every year). For the best street art, head to Main Street and you will see murals from 4 th until 14 th Avenue. There is a handy map with the locations of the permanent displays of art from the 2017 Vancouver Mural Festival here.

Every Vancouver one day itinerary should include seeing some of the stunning street art around the city

6:00- Have dinner at Meet in Gastown

Meet in Gastown is a super cool walk-in restaurant, and all items on the menu are vegan and gluten free (unless otherwise stated). Try the TeeM Poutine as a starter and wash it down with a tasty cocktail.

8:00- Explore Gastown

Gastown is the oldest suburb in Vancouver, so this is where you’ll find the city’s character. Wander down Water Street which is illuminated by vintage street lamps and visit one of the world’s only steam clocks on the corner of Water and Cambie Street. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in this area too, so Gastown is a good area for bar hopping.

I was warned by a few locals to be careful in Gastown as bikes are known to go missing in this area, however I felt very safe wandering the streets by myself.

Need more inspiration? Shop my favourite Vancouver travel guides here

Autumn in Vancouver is simply beautiful

Staying a bit longer? Here are some other things to see and do in Vancouver:

Fly over canada.

Fly Over Canada is a virtual experience that will take you on a ride through the best parts of Canada. Purchasing your tickets online will save you money.

Whale Watching

Seeing whales in the wild is an experience you’ll never forget. Tours are offered April through October. Book your tour in advance  so you don’t miss out.

Go to a Canucks game

Canadians are very passionate about their ice hockey, just like New Zealanders are about their rugby! The Canucks are Vancouver’s team, and if you are lucky enough to be in Vancouver when they have a home game, make sure you buy a ticket to a game.

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

Located in Lynn Valley, the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge is free for all visitors to cross (unlike the touristy Capilano suspension bridge). Suspended 50m in the air, the bridge offers views of  the canyon and its waterfalls and raging waters below. The bridge leads to a park where there are a selection of walks to choose from.

Short on time and would prefer a tour?

There are a few different tours you can join to make the most of your limited hours in Vancouver.

The  Vancouver City Highlights tour is a 4 hour tour that will take you to most of the places in my itinerary, plus a few more.

The 24 hour Hop On Hop Off Bus is also a popular way to see the city. You get an audio guide tour, plus the bus stops at all the main tourist attractions.

Or if you’d prefer a more unique tour, consider going on this private tour with a local .

Where should you stay in Vancouver…

If you’re on a budget.

I have stayed in two hostels in Vancouver: the Samesun Vancouver and the Cambie Hostel.

The Samesun Vancouver is the nicer but pricier of the two. It comes with complimentary Wi-Fi, towels, and best of all- a great free breakfast! Its location is in the heart of the city, and it has a restaurant and bar downstairs.

The Cambie is your typical, bare-bones cheap hostel. The best thing about this hostel is its location- right in the heart of Gastown. The Cambie is a heritage building so it is a bit old and shabby, but it is very well-priced for a hostel in an excellent location! The Cambie is a great hostel for meeting people as it is above a bar. For this reason however I would not recommend it as a place to stay for light sleepers. The Wi-Fi is free and hostel guests receive a $5 off breakfast voucher. Breakfast came to less than $5 for me including a tip.

The Granville Island Silos

If you like your luxury

If you prefer private, luxary accommodation I recommend staying at the Fairmont Waterfront . The Fairmont brand is absolutely fantastic in Canada, and if you like to travel in style or want to splurge, I always recommend spending a night at one of these hotels.

The L’Hermitage Hotel is another fantastic option and located within walking distance to Stanley Park and the Granville Market.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my article on what to see in Vancouver in one day. If you like it, make sure you share it on Pinterest or Facebook.

Have you tried my Vancouver One Day Itinerary? Drop a comment below!

PLANNING A TRIP TO CANADA?

Hostelworld is where I book hostels

For booking hotels, I recommend comparing prices with Booking.com and Expedia

I book all my tours with Get Your Guide

I always use Auto Europe for booking a rental car

You can shop my favourite travel guides on Vancouver here

PIN FOR LATER

Related posts.

How to Spend One Day in Vancouver

Posted on Last updated: August 24, 2023

Categories British Columbia , Canada , Road Trips

Like it? Share it!

1 Day Vancouver Itinerary

Table of Contents

Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada is a city where there are so many options for things to do both in and out of the downtown area.

Vancouver is famous for its food, its beaches and of course its outdoor adventure activities.

So what if you only have 24 hours in Vancouver? Is one day enough to see and do it all?

I always find it hard to pick and choose what to do in a new place when I don’t have much time. That’s why I am going to help you plan the perfect day in Vancouver where you won’t feel like you have missed out and you will have gotten a real taste of the city.

This 1 day Vancouver Itinerary will provide you with the must-see spots in the city as well as where to stay, where to eat and where to adventure to outside of the city! I will also give you the exact instructions of how to travel from place to place so that you barely need to do any additional research after reading this guide!

Your one day in Vancouver will be the best adventure ever!

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks so much for your support!

📍 Where is Vancouver

Vancouver is located on the West Coast of Canada, right next to Seattle in Washington State, USA.

Click here to open the map in Google Maps!

How to Get to Vancouver

Vancouver has its own International Airport. To get to Vancouver from most places in the world you can fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and then get the SkyTrain or a taxi or Uber to your hotel Downtown.

If you are in Washington State in the US, you can also cross the border by car into Canada.

📆 When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Vancouver?

Deciding on when in the year to visit Vancouver, really comes down to personal preference, but personally I love Summer in Vancouver ! There are so many outdoor activities to do both outside and inside the city. Downtown Vancouver really comes alive in the Summer with people crowded onto outdoor patios at restaurants and at the beaches enjoying the sun.

Vancouver usually sees a lot of rain during Spring and if it’s not raining, it’s just cloudy.

Winter is a great time to visit Vancouver if you love festive vibes and skiing. Even though it doesn’t snow very often in the city, there are 3 local mountains , Grouse, Mount Seymour and Cypress Mountain, that get lots of snow and have activities such as sledding and skiing available.

Vancouver gets some Fall colours during the Fall season but nothing like other places like Quebec . There are some fun festive activities that you can do in Vancouver during Fall.

🍂 Looking for a road trip in Canada to see some incredible Fall colours? Check out our Quebec Fall Road Trip Itinerary! 🍁

🚗 Do I need a car to visit Vancouver?

There are lots of places to see in and around Vancouver that can be visited without a car. Everything in this itinerary, you can reach without a car, although for some of them, having a car might make the trip a little faster.

If you have longer than 1 day in Vancouver, I recommend hiring a car for a day or 2, so that you can get out of the city and explore more of the outdoors.

I always use Rentalcars.com which is great for comparing vehicle prices to find the best deal.

❓ How Many Days Should You Spend in Vancouver?

You can spend as little as 1 day and as many as 4 days in Vancouver. After 4 days, you will most likely begin growing tired of the city and I would recommend visiting other places nearby such as Squamish or Whistler.

🛌 Where to Stay in Vancouver

There are lots of different areas that you could choose to stay in in Vancouver. These are some of our favourite and the ones I would recommend looking into.

North Vancouver

North Vancouver is close to the 3 local Vancouver mountains, Grouse, Seymour and Cypress. This area is located a Seabus ride across the water from Downtown Vancouver, but has its own restaurants, pubs and breweries located on the water at Lower Lonsdale Quay.

Dave and I absolutely love North Vancouver and know that you will too!

Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier is a harbour-front North Vancouver hotel with a 25m swimming pool and gourmet restaurant on-site! As it is located right on the harbour, it is easy to hop on the Seabus to get across to Downtown Vancouver.

Check prices!

Grouse Cheerful large private bedroom, bath, shared deck, pool, hot tub

This gorgeous residence is an Airbnb type of accommodation and it has an amazing swimming pool, hot tub and shared kitchen! It is about 4 km from Lonsdale Quay and 4.7 km from Capilano Suspension Bridge, has free parking included and city views from the rooms!

Crystal’s View Bed & Breakfast

If you are looking for a place to relax and get away from the business of the city, this Bed and Breakfast is for you! The rooms are gorgeous, the garden is stunning with fountains and a gazebo and a full breakfast is served in the dining area each morning. Tea or coffee with home-baked cookies is also offered each afternoon.

Downtown Vancouver

If you are a fan of the city and being around the hustle and bustle then Downtown Vancouver is for you!

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver

We stayed at the Sutton Place Hotel on our very first night in Vancouver when we landed. It was a gorgeous hotel with great views outside of the city and located very centrally near some great shops like Lululemon.

GEC Granville Suites Downtown

The GEC Granville Suites Downtown is a great place to stay if you want to be central but are looking for more affordable accommodation. We stayed here for about 2.5 weeks while we were looking for an apartment and it had everything we needed and was very clean.

Do you love the ocean? Vancouver seriously has everything! You can stay near the beach in the Kitsilano area which is an area by the ocean with amazing vibes! During Summer, there are loads of people picnicking all along the beach, playing volleyball and just hanging out with friends.

Rare find in Kitsilano – 2B Apartment

This 2 bedroom apartment is only 1.2 km from Kitsilano Beach and 1.8 km from Jericho Beach.

Beautiful, Quiet 3BR in Posh Kitsilano

This 3 bedroom apartment is only 1.2 km from Kitsilano Beach and 1.7 km from Jericho Beach! This is a great place to stay if you want to cook your own meals as it is a house with a full kitchen and dining area.

Vancouver 1 Day Itinerary

This one day Vancouver itinerary includes everything that Dave and I would personally do if we only had one day in Vancouver. If know us, you will know that we love the outdoors, walking, sunrises and sunsets.

This itinerary will also focus on getting around the city without a car, as usually when we travel to a city, we don’t feel the need to hire a car unless we are wanting to drive out of the city.

Go for a sunrise walk or bike ride at Stanley Park

Stanley Park is absolutely gorgeous at sunrise. The Stanley Park loop is 9km long and is a very popular cycling or running spot in Vancouver.

The seawall makes up a large part of the loop which is a great place to watch the sunrise. There are some great viewpoints like Prospect Point and Siwash Rock. You will also pass Vancouver Aquarium , Brockton Point Lighthouse and the totem poles.

Stanley Park is HUGE and is actually larger than Central Park in New York! It can be easy to get lost wandering around in the beautiful gardens and along the Sea Wall.

If you decide to walk through Stanley Park, I recommend walking the Seawall around the right-hand side of the park. This way, you will be able to see Brockton Point Lighthouse, the Nine-o-clock gun and the Totem poles before making your way over to Prospect Point. 

If you would like to rent a bike to ride around Stanley Park, which is a great way to see the sights of Vancouver in a fun and fast way, you can do so from a place called Stokes .

How to get to Stanley Park from Granville Station (10-15 minutes)

Granville Station is quite a central spot in Downtown Vancouver and so I am going to use it as our starting point for the day.

To get to Stanley Park, you can catch Bus 257 (Horseshoe Bay Express) from WB W Georgia St @ Seymour St. Once you get off the bus, you can walk the rest of the way into Stanley Park which should only take a couple of minutes.

Grab Coffee and Breakfast

Once you have had enough of walking and your tummy is starting to grumble, its time to grab some breakfast!

Depending on where you are in the park, I can recommend:

Prospect Point Café – Prospect Point Café is located in Stanley Park and has amazing views! The café opens from 9:30am daily and serves coffee, breakfast sandwiches and a croque monsieur croissant.

Breka Bakery on Denman (821 Denman St, Vancouver, BC) – Breka Bakery is a bakery chain that is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day! When we first moved to Vancouver, we had Breka for breakfast and coffee almost every single day so I can rate it!

The Breka Bakery Cafes are ALWAYS busy which shows just how great their food is. It is sometimes hard to get a seat inside the café but you can always get your breakfast and coffee to go and eat it outside.

How to get to these cafes

I recommend walking to each of these cafes.

Prospect Point Café is located on the Northern end of Stanley Park up near the Lions Gate Bridge.

Breka Bakery, on the other hand, is back towards the bus stop you would have gotten off at to get to Stanley Park.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-do activity in Vancouver for anyone who loves magical forests. This is one of my favourite things to do during Winter in Vancouver because the forest gets decorated by thousands of fairy lights, making it even more magical.

If you go during the period when the fairy lights are up, I recommend switching this activity out from midday to later in the day, closer to sunset so that the lights stand out more.  

Capilano Suspension Park is a paid entry activity. You will need to pre-purchase your tickets for your chosen timeslot here .

How to get to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park from Stanley Park

To get to Capilano Suspension Bridge from Stanley Park, you can catch either Bus 246 (Highland) or Bus 247 (Grouse Mountain). Bus 247 will be the slighter shorter of the two, with less walking time. Both of these buses leave from the same place that you get dropped off at when first arriving at Stanley Park.

If you decide to have breakfast at the Prospect Point Café, you will need to walk back to the original bus stop, or alternatively, walk back to Vancouver Aquarium where you can catch Bus 019 (Pender/To Main St Station) back to the original bus stop where you will then need to get off and onto either the 246 or 247 .

If you are hungry by now, you can grab some lunch from one of the cafes at Capilano.

The Bridge House – located across the road from the park and serves wraps, sandwiches, daily-baked muffins and scones and of course coffee.

Loggers’ Grill – located in the park and serves burgers and hot food.

The Cabin – located in the park on the far side of the Capilano Suspension Bridge and serves hot drinks and sweet treats. The hot chocolates from here are DECLICIOUS!

Canada Place

Catch the SeaBus (aka the ferry) back over to Canada Place . Canada Place is one of the most iconic spots in Vancouver. Canada Place is a cruise ship terminal, convention Centre and home to the Pan Pacific Hotel.  

I’m sure you have seen a photo of the orca whale that looks like it is made out of Lego somewhere on the internet before. This famous Lego looking sculpture looks like a digital orca made from pixels and is located next to the Convention Centre at Vancouver’s Canada Place.

From Canada Place, you will get amazing views looking back out over the water towards the North Shore Mountains which is where you would have just come from. You will be able to see the 3 North Shore Mountains, Grouse, Mount Seymour and Cypress Mountain.

Canada Place is also home to Vancouver’s FlyOver Canada experience which is a fun immersive simulated flight ride that takes you over some absolutely incredible landscapes throughout Canada.

How to get from Capilano Suspension Park to Canada Place

From Capilano, you will want to catch Bus 236 (Lonsdale Quay) which is a 20 minute bus ride to Lonsdale Quay. Once you get off the bus, walk towards the SeaBus terminal and get the SeaBus to Waterfront Station which is about a 12 minute trip across the water.

From Waterfront Station, it is about a 650m walk to Canada Place.

Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver Lookout is one of the best views in Vancouver ! To get up to the lookout you will travel in a glass elevator for 40 seconds to 168.6m above ground to the panoramic deck above Vancouver. There is also a gift shop and a restaurant.

From the top you will have unobstructed views of Vancouver, Gastown, Coal Harbour, Stanley Park and even all of the way out to Mount Baker in the US!

Book your ticket to Vancouver Lookout here!

How to get from Canada Place to Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver Lookout is not too far from Canada place. It is about a 9 minute walk. You will need to walk towards Waterfront Road and then turn left followed by a sharp right onto Howe Street. Then turn left onto Cordova Street and right onto Seymour Street.

Once you have finished enjoying the incredible views from Vancouver Lookout, you can take a stroll through Gastown before heading to Granville Island.

Gastown is known for its whistling Steam Clock, fun souvenir shops and art galleries all set in Victorian style buildings. There are also lots of nice cocktail bars and restaurants .

Some of the restaurants to try are Tacofino , which is a taco bar originally from Tofino on Vancouver Island and the Old Spaghetti Factory. The Steamworks Brewpub is also a good microbrewery to try out if you have the time.

How to get from Vancouver Lookout to Gastown

From Vancouver Lookout to Gastown, it is only a 4 minute walk, so you may as well stop by and see the Steam Clock. You will need to get back onto Cordova Street, before turning onto Water Street. As soon as you turn onto Water Street, you have essentially entered the Gastown area.

Granville Island

Granville Island has become a pretty famous spot for Vancouver due to popularity of the Granville Island Public Market. At the market you will find some great gifts to take back home to friends and family, fresh produce, baked goods, clothing and more!

Even though it is called an “island,” it is accessible by car, boat, bus or by foot. It is still connected to the mainland but is located on the water.

There are lots of great food and restaurant options on Granville Island so it makes for a good place to be for dinner.

How to get to Granville Island from Gastown

To get to Granville Island from Gastown, you could either walk across Downtown Vancouver, which would take around 40 minutes or you could catch Bus #050 (South False Creek via Granville Island) from Waterfront Station at Bay 2.

This bus ride will take around 20 minutes and you will get off at W 2nd Ave @ Anderson St and walk 5 minutes to Granville Island.

Amazing Vancouver Tours

If you don’t want to galivant around the city by yourself, you can join a tour which might make your day a little more relaxing. There are some really fun ones out there!

Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Cost: CAD 200 – 250 Duration: 5.5 hours

Grouse Mountain is one of Vancouver’s 3 local mountains and the views from the top are incredible! This tour takes you to Capilano River Hatchery to witness the salmon leaping up the river on their way to their annual spawning beds, following by Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.

Book Tour Here!

Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

Cost: CAD 140 – 150 Duration: 5 – 6 hours

This half day tour takes you to all of the best sights in Vancouver including the beautiful Stanley Park on a bus tour. Then you will make your way to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and enjoy the beauty of the forest and hopefully the fairy lights if they are on!

Seaplane Flight to Victoria and Whale-Watching Cruise

Cost: CAD 600 Duration: 10 hours

This is a once in a lifetime tour and something that we have been dying to do for a while now! This tour will take you to Victoria by seaplane! You will then join a boat cruise and travel through a place called Haro Strait, which is home to Orcas (killer whales), sea lions and seals.

Vancouver Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise

Cost: CAD 200 – 220 Duration: 2.5 hours

If you are done with walking around Downtown Vancouver and want to finish your day with a bang, why not book a Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise ? On this boat cruise, you will listen to live music and eat delicious Pacific Coast-style cuisine as you watch the sunset from the deck and get take in the views of Canada Place, the North Shore Mountains and the West Vancouver skyline.

More things to do in Vancouver

If you get through the itinerary above and still have time to spare, you are must be CRAZY fast at sightseeing, but don’t worry! If you still have energy to see more, there are more things waiting for you to check out!

Visit the VanDusen Botanical Gardens

The VanDusen Botanical Gardens are beautiful and worth a visit! They are located at 5151 Oak Street Vancouver and from Downtown, you can get there on Bus #17 from Granville Station.

Vancouver Aquarium

We have been to the Vancouver Aquarium once and were really impressed! This place is huge and there is so much to see! I also love that Vancouver Aquarium has a rescue program and a lot of the animals you see there have been rescued.

Book tickets to Vancouver Aquarium here! 🐟🐠🐡🦈

Go on a Hike

If you have more than one day in Vancouver and you enjoy hiking, you should look into doing a hike or two. There are loads of incredible hikes in and around Vancouver!

Check out the Cypress Mountain Lookout and get coffee or a beer at The Shed

If you want to check out Cypress Mountain Lookout, I definitely recommend hiring a car for this as there is no bus that can take you all of the way. From the lookout, you can see across the water to Vancouver and if you travel further up Cypress Bowl Road, you will reach The Shed which is a pop up bar with great views that offers, coffee, drinks, pizza and snacks.

If you are planning a trip to Vancouver, you might also find the following guides helpful:

• 21 Best Views in Vancouver
• 16 Stunning Winter Hikes in Vancouver
• 7 Best Sunset Hikes in Vancouver
• 9 Beautiful Places To Go Paddle Boarding in Vancouver
• 16 Incredible Waterfalls Near Vancouver That You Need to Visit

📌 Share and Save for later!

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Vancouver in a Day: A Compact Adventure

March 29, 2024 · 1 min read

Embark on a one-day journey through the heart of Vancouver, where urban charm meets natural beauty. Begin your adventure at Stanley Park, a lush oasis offering a serene escape with its characteristic neighborhood vibes. Allocate two hours to soak in the greenery and cultural landmarks. Next, elevate your senses with a 30-minute immersive experience at FlyOver Canada, a cinematic adventure that gives you a bird's eye view of the country. Just a short walk away, spend an hour at Canada Place, the iconic square that boasts panoramic views and a gateway to the Pacific. As the afternoon unfolds, meander through the cobblestone streets of Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, where history whispers at every corner. Dedicate an hour to explore its quaint boutiques and eateries. Conclude your day with a quick 15-minute stop at the Gastown Steam Clock, one of the city's most photographed historical monuments. This compact itinerary is designed to showcase the best of Vancouver, from its verdant parks to its urban landmarks, ensuring a memorable trip even with the constraints of time.

• Day 1: Exploring Vancouver's Iconic Landmarks

Stanley Park

Begin your Vancouver adventure with a refreshing stroll through Stanley Park, the city's beloved urban oasis. Spanning over 1,000 acres, this characteristic neighborhood park offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes and scenic views of the surrounding waters. Dedicate a couple of hours to explore its winding trails, visit the famous totem poles, and perhaps even spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Attraction Info

• Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

FlyOver Canada

Next, take your senses on a thrilling ride at FlyOver Canada, a captivating cinema experience that gives you a bird's eye view of the country's vast landscapes. Located just a short walk from Stanley Park at Canada Place, this immersive attraction uses state-of-the-art technology to simulate flight, complete with wind, scents, and mist, all in a half-hour adventure that will leave you awe-struck.

• 999 Canada Pl #201, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 10:00am-8:00pm

Canada Place

After soaring across Canada, step outside to the grandeur of Canada Place itself. Spend an hour wandering this iconic square, where the architecture and the waterfront promenade provide a perfect backdrop for photos. Canada Place is also a hub for cultural events and a gateway to other attractions, making it a must-visit spot on your one-day itinerary.

• 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open 24 hours

As the day progresses, meander through the cobblestone streets of Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. With one hour here, you'll have ample time to soak in the historic charm, browse through unique boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to dine at one of the local eateries, offering a taste of the city's diverse culinary scene.

• Vancouver, BC, Canada

Gastown Steam Clock

Conclude your day with a visit to the Gastown Steam Clock, one of the few remaining steam clocks in the world. This historical monument is not only a nod to the past but also a popular gathering spot. A quick 15-minute stop allows you to witness the clock's whimsical display of steam-powered whistles and chimes, a fitting finale to your day in Vancouver.

• 305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9, Canada
• Suggested tour duration: 15-30 minutes

Where to Stay Tonight

The cambie hostel gastown, delta hotels by marriott vancouver downtown suites, victorian hotel, the cambie hostel seymour, top things to do in vancouver-2024.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

<h3>Trending Searches</h3>

Popular Content

• Colac 1 Day Itinerary
• Windermere 1 Day Itinerary
• Ganzhou 2 Days Itinerary
• Aireys Inlet 1 Day Itinerary
• Xuancheng 4 Days Itinerary
• Costa Adeje 1 Day Itinerary
• Mecklenburg County 1 Day Itinerary
• Prambanan 1 Day Itinerary
• Yanbian 5 Days Itinerary
• Acton 1 Day Itinerary
• Tauranga 1 Day Itinerary
• Fujikawaguchiko 3 Days Itinerary
• Pecs 1 Day Itinerary
• Redang Island 1 Day Itinerary
• Shimonoseki 1 Day Itinerary
• Kagoshima 1 Day Itinerary
• Chongqing 4 Days Itinerary
• Manasi 1 Day Itinerary
• Beyoglu 3 Days Itinerary
• Luxury Hotels in Varadero
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

Vancouver 1-Day city tour

• Transportation (The type of vehicle used will base on the number of guests on the day.) .
• Bilingual driver and/or guide.
• Food and beverage.
• Attraction admission fee (Prices are subject to change without prior notice).
• Service fee (minimum CAD$12/person/day）
• Any personal expenses are not listed in Fee Included.
• Entry/Admission - Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Option 1 8811 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8, Canada 08:00Departure River Rock Casino Resort；8811 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8, Canada；
• Option 2 Scotiabank, 5812 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3A8, Canada 08:15Departure West Vancouver (on Cambie St & 42nd Ave.)；5812 Cambie St. Scotiabank；
• Option 3 2829-4500 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2A9, Canada 08:30Departure Burnaby: HSBC Bank Crystal Mall；2829-4500 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2A9, Canada；
• Option 1 8811 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8, Canada River Rock Casino Resort；8811 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8, Canada；
• Option 2 Scotiabank, 5812 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3A8, Canada West Vancouver (on Cambie St & 42nd Ave.)；5812 Cambie St. Scotiabank；
• Option 3 2829-4500 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2A9, Canada Burnaby: HSBC Bank Crystal Mall；2829-4500 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2A9, Canada；
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Vancouver ChinaTown
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Similar experiences

• You’ll have 3 starting options See departure details
• 1 Queen Elizabeth Park Stop: 40 minutes See details
• 2 Vancouver ChinaTown Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 3 Gastown Stop: 25 minutes See details
• 4 Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Stop: 45 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 5 Canada Place Stop: 2 hours See details
• 6 Stanley Park Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll end at See departure details

More to explore in Richmond

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Vancouver 1-Day city tour - with unbiased reviews

gotravelyourself.com

Travel solo, travel smart, travel well.

One-Day Vancouver Tour

49.2608724, -123.113952

7 to 8 hours

Special notice

1-We can pickup from some Air B&B locations. We also pickup from the Rocky Mountainee Station and other Railway Stations.

2–Please Confirm 24 to 48 Hours before the start time

3–Tour Might Run Longer /Shorter Depending on Road Traffic Conditions or other reasons

Price range

One-Day Vancouver Tour. The City of Vancouver is recognized as one of the world’s most livable cities. On this 9-10 hour guided Vancouver tour, learn what makes Vancouver one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Your driver-guide will give you an entertaining tour of Vancouver’s diverse cultures and modern city planning. This small-group tour, with a maximum of 6 participants, includes round-trip hotel transportation.

The Vancouver ALL IN ONE Full Day City Tour stops at 20 locations and allows you to explore the city at your leisure. Make yourself at home in the Mini Van and travel the length and breadth of the city in just 9 hours. The tour is unique in that it includes admission to Vancouver Lookout, False Creek, and Queen Elizabeth Park.

Gastown / Canada Place / Robson Street / Coal Harbour Marina / Stanley Park / Yealtown/BC Place / Vancouver Lookout / Granville Island / English Bay / Convention Centre /Waterfront/ Downtown/ Yaletown / False Creek/ Vancouver Chinatown / Lion Gate Bridge / Science World / Commercial Drive / Queen Elizabeth Park /

Table of Contents

• BONUS 1-Day Vancouver tour!-Ride the scenic False Creek mini ferry before visiting Granville Island

Visit the island of Granville. This trending hot spot was marked by rich artistic culture as one of Vancouver’s must-go places .

Follow Chinese heritage footsteps and visit North America’s second-largest Chinatown, where you’ll find the world’s shallowest commercial building, Sam Kee Building.

Explore Gastown , the oldest neighborhood in Vancouver. Don’t forget to take pictures of the first Steam Clock in the modern world. Every 15 minutes, the clock whistles and is the only one of its kind in the world. Visit the shops of antiques, art shops, cafes, etc.

First served as the Canada Pavilion for the World Fair Expo in 1986, the Vancouver Convention Center. Next to the Convention Center is the Canada Place design “Five Sails,” one of Vancouver’s most important landmarks.

Also along the way, you can find the 2010 Winter Olympic Cauldron. You may also choose to “fly over Canada” (optional) in Seaplane or 4D.

At Vancouver’s first and largest urban park, Stanley Park, take a refreshing break. Experience the culture of the first nation at Brockton Point, where there are nine totem poles. View a distance from the Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet.

Shop on Robson Street, where you’ll love the shopping paradise. Keep an eye out for local artists ‘ street art and graffiti. Step into Queen Elizabeth Park’s highest point in Vancouver for some spectacular views of the city and landscapes.

Flights and hotel search for Vancouver

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.