Vancouver 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Vancouver

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Jam Cafe (4412 W 10th Ave), known for its pancakes and eggs Benedict.
  • Visit the iconic Stanley Park. Walk, bike or drive around the park and don’t miss the totem poles and the beautiful Rose Garden.
  • Take a stroll along the Seawall, offering stunning views of the city skyline, mountains, and the harbor.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Granville Island. Explore the Public Market, grab lunch at one of the many food vendors, and visit the Granville Island Brewing Company for a taste of local beer.
  • Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery (750 Hornby St) in the heart of downtown, housing a collection of works by Canadian artists.

Evening:

  • Dine at Guu with Garlic (1239 Granville St), a popular izakaya restaurant.
  • End your day with a visit to Gastown, Vancouver’s historic neighborhood. Enjoy the nightlife, explore the cobblestone streets, and grab a drink at one of the many bars or pubs.

Transportation:

  • Walking is the best way to explore downtown, but you can also use the extensive public transit system (TransLink). Consider getting a Compass Card for convenient fare payments.

Day 2: Exploring Vancouver Beyond Downtown

Morning:

  • Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (3735 Capilano Rd), located in the lush North Vancouver mountains. Walk across the suspension bridge and explore the Treetops Adventure.
  • Head to Grouse Mountain (4096 N Van Rd) for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can hike, take a cable car or ski in winter.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at The Log Cabin Restaurant at Grouse Mountain, offering local cuisine with a view.
  • Visit Steveston Village (4111 Moncton St), a charming fishing village in Richmond. Explore the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site and stroll along the Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf.

Evening:

  • Dine at Nikkei Restaurant (12831 72nd Ave #106), a popular spot for Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine in Steveston.
  • Return to downtown Vancouver and relax at your hotel.

Where to Stay:

  • For luxury, consider the Fairmont Pacific Rim (1055 Canada Pl).
  • For mid-range accommodations, try the Sandman Hotel Vancouver City Centre (180 West Georgia St).
  • For budget travelers, there’s the HI-Vancouver Central (136 W Hastings St).

Things to Know:

  • Vancouver is a city with a strong cultural diversity. Be respectful of this and enjoy the multitude of cultures on display.
  • Tipping is customary in Canada, with 15-20% being standard.
  • The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and a raincoat.

Tips:

  • Download the Transit app to help navigate public transit easily.
  • Visit during spring or fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Try local seafood, especially salmon and oysters.