Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinAfter our countless trips to Vancouver, we’ve finally cracked the code for the perfect 4-day itinerary.
We squeezed a lot during our trips, and this is the result of some serious trial and error—like that time we thought we could hike Grouse Mountain and hit Granville Island on the same day (spoiler: not happening).
Whether you’re here for the sights, the food, or a bit of both, this itinerary covers it all without running you ragged. So, grab your walking shoes and an appetite—you’re in for a fun ride!
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Vancouver is April to May, when the weather is warm for outdoor activities in the city, and ski slopes in North Vancouver are still open. You can ski and enjoy the city on the same day!
Tips on Getting Around Vancouver
• Take the SkyTrain instead of the bus whenever possible. It’s faster, more frequent, and stations are conveniently located.
• When buying a ticket, check the info on top of the machine. You might save money with a day pass, and zones don’t apply on weekends or weekdays after 6:30 PM.
• Use Google Maps to check nearby bus times.
• Zone-based fares apply, so traveling across zones costs more.
• Avoid tapping your Compass card near your debit or credit cards to prevent accidental charges.
• Download a car-sharing app in advance. It’s handy for quick trips if your family gets tired or caught in bad weather.
• For real-time bus arrivals, text the bus stop number to 33333, and you’ll get the next buses for that stop within 45 minutes.
Day 1: City Sights and Attractions
Stop 1: Purebread Bakery + Coffee
Stop 2: Downtown Vancouver
Stop 3: Blue Water Cafe
Stop 4: Robson Street
Stop 5: Coal Harbour Seaside Park
Stop 6: Cardero’s Restaurant
Grab Breakfast at Purebread Bakery + Coffee
Media credit: purebread_canada
Time check: 08:00 am
Address: 159 W Hastings Street
Phone: +1 604-563-8060
As soon as you land at YVR, you can treat yourself to some fresh breads or tasty bites at Purebread Bakery. But if you ask us, the real move is to head to their W Hastings Street location—perfect for starting your downtown Vancouver adventure.
This cozy, modern bakery has everything from fresh bread and buns to an array of desserts. Their pastries are light, flaky, and just melt in your mouth. The savory options are packed with flavor, and the sweets are perfect!
Explore Downtown Vancouver
Media credit: downtownvan
Suggested Time to Visit: 09:00 am
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Now that you’re fueled up and ready to explore, your first stop should be the iconic Canada Place. Not only is it home to FlyOver Canada (trust me, you’ll want to try this), but it also hosts a ton of shops and events, like the Summer Series and Christmas celebrations.
Next, head over to the Vancouver Lookout for unbeatable 360-degree views of downtown, the North Shore Mountains, and even Vancouver Island.
It’s a quick 14-minute walk from there to the Vancouver Art Gallery, where you can dive into some stunning contemporary art and powerful works by First Nations artists.
Then, make your way to Gastown, Vancouver’s most Instagrammable and historic neighborhood. With its charming cobblestone streets, the famous steam clock, and a great mix of local shops and restaurants, you’ll be snapping photos all afternoon.
Have Lunch at the Blue Water Cafe
Media credit: bluewatercafe
Suggested Time to Visit: 12:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 1095 Hamilton Street
Phone: +1 604-688-8078
From here, hop on the 007 bus at SB Granville St @ W Georgia St. Get off at SB Granville St @ Nelson St, and your lunch spot is just a quick 6-minute walk from there.
After your shopping spree, it’s time to treat yourself to some well-deserved grub at Blue Water Cafe. This spot is hailed as the definitive seafood experience in Vancouver—think of it as a cornerstone in the city’s food scene.
If you’re craving fresh fish and seafood, this is the place to be. Every dish is bursting with flavor, and the fish is so fresh it practically melts in your mouth.
Shop at Robson Street
Media credit: robsonstreet
Suggested Time to Visit: 01:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Address: Robson Street
After lunch, head northeast on Hamilton Street toward Nelson Street, then take a right onto Nelson. From there, turn left onto Beatty Street, and you’ll find your next stop for the day just ahead!
As one of Vancouver’s oldest commercial streets, Robson Street is a shopper’s paradise where you can easily shop ’til you drop. With over 100 stores lining this bustling stretch, it’s the heart of downtown Vancouver’s shopping scene.
Spanning three blocks, Robson has everything from trendy boutiques to familiar favorites, all with plenty of parking between Burrard and Jervis. This is where locals come to shop, offering a great variety of stores—and the prices are pretty reasonable, by Vancouver standards.
Take a Stroll at Coal Harbour Seaside Park
Media credit: kmnhayashii
Suggested Time to Visit: 04:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: 1199 W Cordova Street
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Then, head over to the WB W Pender St @ Abbott St and catch the 019 bus heading to Stanley Park. Get off at WB W Pender and Bute Street, and take a short walk to Coal Harbour Seaside Park, where stunning waterfront views await!
To wrap up day one, head over to Coal Harbour Seaside Park and burn off those calories while soaking in the stunning waterfront views.
You’ll get to enjoy the lively atmosphere with boats and seaplanes coming and going, plus there are plenty of walking and biking paths that run right along the water.
Keep an eye out for some cool art pieces scattered around too! It’s a small park, but incredibly peaceful—perfect for relaxing or even setting up a picnic. And here’s a bonus: during the summer, you can legally enjoy a drink here.
Have Dinner at Cardero’s Restaurant
Media credit: carderos_van
Suggested Time to Visit: 06:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay
Phone: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay
Next up is dinner! From here, walk to Jervis Mews Street and turn left. Cardero’s restaurant is just a quick 5-minute walk away, where you can enjoy a delicious meal to end the day!
Located on the pier at Coal Harbour Quay, Cardero’s offers the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere is inviting, with dim lighting, an appealing interior, and a lively open kitchen that adds to the energy.
What really stood out for us were the prawn sizzle and the roasted sablefish. The Signature Wok Squid (Salt and Pepper Squid) was cooked to perfection, and the salmon was incredibly juicy and flavorful.
After dinner, consider heading to Cardero Park to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or maybe drop by H2 Kitchen + Bar for drinks. These places are a minute walk from Cardero’s and offer stunning views of the marina and Stanley Park.
Day 2: Fun Day and Night Out
Stop 1: Granville Island
Stop 2: Museums
Stop 3: LOCAL Public Eatery
Stop 4: Kitsilano Beach
Stop 5: Arbutus Greenway
Stop 6: White Spot
Shop and Dine at Granville Island
Media credit: granville_island
Suggested Time to Visit: 08:00 am
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: Granville Island
Phone: 604-666-6655
You simply cannot skip a visit to Granville Island. This is the spot to find all things local—from fresh food and seafood to unique knick-knacks and handmade crafts.
Start off by grabbing a hot bowl of soup from The Stock Market, then swing by Longliner Seafoods for some of the freshest smoked seafood around.
Not feeling seafood? Head over to Tenderland Meats for a mouthwatering selection of meats, poultry, and deli favorites.
Now, for dessert, Lee’s Donuts is an absolute must. Their famous Honey Dip donut is legendary, but with so many flavors, trust me—it’s impossible to leave with just one!
After filling up, take a stroll through Granville Island Public Market. Whether you’re looking for local delicacies to take home or the perfect souvenir for your loved ones, you’ll find it all here.
Experience the Local Art Scene
Media credit: museumofvan
Suggested Time to Visit: 10:00 am
Average Duration: 2 hours
There’s no public transportation that can take you directly to your next destination. So, we suggest you hail a cab from Granville Island to here.
The Museum of Vancouver and the Vancouver Maritime Museum are a five minute walk away from each other, which is why they’re a great option for a combined visit in one day. Both museums offer unique perspectives on the history and culture of Vancouver.
The Museum of Vancouver is Canada’s leading civic history museum, offering fascinating exhibits that dive deep into the city’s past.
You’ll learn about the historical connections between Indigenous peoples and their lands, the discrimination they and other immigrants faced, as well as life in Vancouver during the Great Depression and the lively 1950s.
For a different slice of history, head over to the Vancouver Maritime Museum. It shines a light on Vancouver and Canada’s rich maritime heritage. You can tour a massive ship and check out some really interesting exhibits.
Eat at LOCAL Public Eatery
Media credit: localpubliceatery
Suggested Time to Visit: 12:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 2210 Cornwall Avenue
Phone: +1 604-734-3589
After soaking up some local art and history, take a quick 4-minute walk to LOCAL Public Eatery for lunch. Their menu has a great mix of familiar favorites and exciting new dishes.
Some of the top hits include their Local fried chicken, tacos, perogies, and a variety of poke bowls. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to grab a seat on the patio—perfect for taking in the beach views and catching a stunning sunset while you dine!
Have a Beach Day at Kitsilano Beach
Media credit: shawn_of_the_sheep
Suggested Time to Visit: 01:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: Cornwall Ave at the north end of Yew Street
From LOCAL Public Eatery, walk to Cornwall Avenue and turn left onto Arbutus Street to find “Kits” Beach.
What makes Kitsilano Beach a must-visit is the incredible panoramic views of downtown Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains. Plus, it’s just a few miles from the downtown core, making it super convenient.
As you walk around the bend, the scenery shifts, offering fresh perspectives at every turn. It’s always fun to collect a few seashells or just sit on the beach and take it all in. The trees lining the path are also gorgeous.
Bike Along the Arbutus Greenway
Media credit: capturephotofest
Suggested Time to Visit: 03:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Address: Arbutus Greenway
Next, ride the 002 bus at Yew Street and get off at Carnarvon. Then, hop on the R4 to East Boulevard to get to the Arbutus Greenway, a fantastic 9 km stretch that transforms an old railway corridor into a vibrant path for walking, biking, and rolling, stretching from False Creek to the Fraser River.
Starting near Granville Island, the trail extends 8.5 km on a well-paved and separated path towards the Fraser River—it’s quite the scenic route! If you’re up for more adventure, you can connect to the Canada Line Bridge and continue on to Richmond.
Don’t forget to stop by Arbutus Coffee, located at 6th & Arbutus near Delamont Park, for a refreshing pick-me-up. Along the Greenway, you’ll also find several charming community gardens to explore.
Grab Dinner at White Spot
Media credit: whitespot_restaurants
Suggested Time to Visit: 06:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 5367 West Blvd
White Spot is just along the Arbutus Greenway, right in the Kerrisdale neighborhood. The food here comes out quickly, so it’s a good choice after a long day. If you’re in Vancouver, this spot is definitely worth a visit.
The portions here are generous, especially the entrees. The fries are perfectly crisp and plentiful, and we have to say, you must order the fish and chips!
After dinner, consider exploring the Kerrisdale neighborhood. This charming neighborhood is famous for its tree-lined streets and stunning modern homes!
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Stop 1: Le Marché St. George
Stop 2: VanDusen Botanical Gardens
Stop 3: Queen Elizabeth Park
Stop 4: The Breakfast Table
Stop 5: Shaughnessy Park
Stop 6: The Stable House Bistro
Get Brunch at Le Marché St. George
Media credit: lemarchestgeorge
Suggested Time to Visit: 09:00 am
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 4393 St George Street
Phone: +1 604-565-5107
We’re starting day 3 with a delicious breakfast at Le Marché St. George, a charming café tucked away in the residential neighborhood of Riley Park. It’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is unpretentious, offering a cozy and casual atmosphere.
The food here is divine, and the outdoor seating is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal—even on a chilly day, the outside seating feels cozy. We’re obsessed with their croissant sandwiches, but their crepes are also a must-try!
Check out the VanDusen Botanical Gardens
Media credit: vandusengarden
Suggested Time to Visit: 10:00 am
Average Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Address: 5251 Oak Street
Phone: +1 604-257-8463
From here, hop on the 008 bus to Fraser Street and 41st. Then, transfer to the R4 bus and get off at WB W 41st Avenue. From there, your first attraction of the day is just an 8-minute walk away!
Your first stop on day three is the delightful VanDusen Botanical Gardens. Set aside at least 2-3 hours to fully immerse yourself in its beauty. If you’re a plant enthusiast who loves to read plant labels, consider adding a bit more time to your visit.
It’s a serene escape from the city buzz. The gardens are tastefully designed with hidden trails and a stunning variety of flowers and plants from around the globe.
The walking paths, ponds, bridges, and seating areas are all crafted with a subtle artistry that enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
Go See Queen Elizabeth Park
Media credit: viawesome
Suggested Time to Visit: 11:30 am
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: At the junction of Cambie Street and West 33rd Avenue
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Once you’ve finished exploring the gardens, head to Oak Street and turn right onto W 33rd Avenue. After that, take a right onto Kersland Drive, where your next garden adventure is waiting to be explored!
Next up is Queen Elizabeth Park, renowned for its stunning and meticulously maintained gardens. Once a rock quarry, this park has been transformed into a beautiful urban oasis featuring vibrant flower beds, public art, lush grassy areas, and sweeping city views.
The view of downtown Vancouver is impressive on any day, though you’ll want to find a prime spot since some areas are obscured by trees. If the skies are clear, you’ll also catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring North Shore Mountains.
Munch on Pork Belly at the Breakfast Table
Media credit: breakfasttable604
Suggested Time to Visit: 01:30 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 3014 Granville Street
Phone: +1 604-805-1900
From here, your lunch spot is just one bus ride away. Board the 033 bus at Cambie Street and get off at W 16th Avenue.
While you’re in the Shaughnessy neighborhood, wrap up your day with a visit to The Breakfast Table. You can’t go wrong with their pork belly, bulgogi, or eggs benedict—all of which are fantastic. And their coffee is always impressive.
The spot offers a cozy and hip brunch experience with a delightful mix of Asian flavors and West Coast minimalist style. The food is delicious without breaking the bank—expect to spend around $20-30 per person.
Relax at Shaughnessy Park
Media credit: sureshot_mikew123
Suggested Time to Visit: 03:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: 1300 The Crescent
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Once you’ve refueled on food, walk to W 15th Avenue and turn left to Mcrae Avenue. From there, turn right to Shaughnessy Park.
Our final park stop is this charming oval park nestled in the picturesque Shaughnessy neighborhood. It’s a serene spot to sit back and take in views of the Fraser River and the distant Richmond landscape.
It’s a beautiful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a touch of tranquility and a slice of paradise. Plus, just a hop, skip, and a jump away, you’ll find a magnificent mansion on one of the streets near Granville, home to one of the largest girth hemlock trees.
Have Supper at The Stable House Bistro
Media credit: stablehousebistro
Suggested Time to Visit: 06:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 1520 W 13th Ave
Phone: +1 604-736-1520
From the park, head to McRae Avenue and turn left onto Granville Street. Then, take another left onto W 14th Avenue, and your dinner spot will be on your right.
The Stable House Bistro is a fantastic spot if you’re looking to sit, chat, and enjoy a glass of wine. This charming, cozy neighborhood bistro in the South Granville area is a must-visit.
Their imported cheese board and house-made pickled vegetables are top-notch in both presentation and flavor. Make sure to try the carbonara, gnocchi, confit duck, and seared tuna.
Day 4: A day on the North
Stop 1: Bacaro
Stop 2: Seabus to North Vancouver
Stop 3: Lonsdale Quay Market
Stop 4: JOEY Shipyards
Stop 5: Capilano Suspension Bridge
Stop 6: Catch 122 Cafe and Bistro
Have a Quick Meal at Bacaro
Media credit: bacarovancouver
Suggested Time to Visit: 09:00 am
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 1029 W Cordova Street
Phone: +1 604-687-9887
Before we head over to North Van, make sure to enjoy brunch at Bacaro. This modern Italian restaurant offers a dining experience that’ll whisk you straight to Europe.
Picture antipasti, rigatoni, formaggi, and a Venetian wine bar vibe that makes you feel like you’re savoring a meal in the heart of Italy.
The duck ragu bigoli is a standout—it’s hearty and rich with a beautifully salty sauce. We topped it off with a sprinkle of truffles, which elevated the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Board the Seabus to North Vancouver
Media credit: andreabad
Suggested Time to Visit: 10:00 am
Average Duration: 12 minutes
Address: 601 W Cordova Street
Phone: +1 604-953-3333
One of the most scenic and popular ways to cross Burrard Inlet is by taking the SeaBus. This quick, 12-minute harbour hop whisks you from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver.
Head to Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver and catch the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. The Seabus operates every 15 minutes throughout the day.
Riding the SeaBus covers two fare zones, so a ticket costs $4.25. It’s a delightful and efficient way to enjoy the stunning views while getting from one side of the inlet to the other!
Drop by the Lonsdale Quay Market
Media credit: lonsdalequay
Suggested Time to Visit: 10:30 am
Average Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Address: 123 Carrie Cates Ct
Phone: +1 604-985-6261
Now that you’re in North Vancouver, your first stop should be Lonsdale Quay Market. It’s a vibrant spot with plenty of shops to browse and restaurants to try. The outdoor area by the sea offers a perfect setting to take in the views.
From Mexican and pizza to Canadian and Asian cuisine, you’ll find everything from hearty soups and salad bowls to upscale desserts and ice cream.
While it may not be as large as Granville Island Market, it’s definitely worth a visit for a taste of local flavors and a chance to explore the area.
Have a Meal at JOEY Shipyards
Media credit: joeyshipyardshiringteam
Suggested Time to Visit: 12:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 hours
Address: 125 Victory Ship Way Unit #110
Phone: +1 604-343-2649
Just a 4-minute walk from the market is JOEY Shipyards, where you can enjoy a meal with a fantastic view of the water and the city.
Their seafood options are incredibly fresh, so definitely consider ordering from that section of the menu.
The steak and sushi are standout dishes, and the tuna tartare is also expertly prepared. It’s a great spot to savor some high-quality food while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge
Media credit: capilanosuspensionbridge
Suggested Time to Visit: 02:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Address: 3735 Capilano Road
Phone: +1 604-985-7474
From here, hop on the 228 bus towards Lonsdale Quay and get off at Capilano Road. You’ll arrive at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park—just as you guessed!
No trip to North Vancouver is complete without a stroll across the Capilano Suspension Bridge—it’s practically a rite of passage. If you’re in Vancouver to experience the natural beauty, this is a must-do.
The suspension bridge stretches 450 feet and takes about 5 to 15 minutes to cross. However, exploring the entire park will typically take around 2 to 2.5 hours.
While it might be a bit pricey, you can save $15 by purchasing tickets online for entry after 5:00 PM. This not only helps you avoid the crowds but also gives you plenty of time to enjoy the park’s enchanting scenery.
Have a Quick Meal Before Boarding the Ferry
Media credit: catch122
Suggested Time to Visit: 05:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Address: 128 Carrie Cates Ct
Phone: +1 604-731-3474
Board the 236 bus towards Lonsdale Quay and get off at Bay 9. From there, the ferry station back to downtown Vancouver is just a 2-minute walk away.
We recommend stopping by here for a bite while you wait to board the ferry—it’s a fantastic new spot for dinner! The live jazz music really enhances the atmosphere, and the cocktails are excellent.
Be sure to try the KFC Dutch Baby baked pancake; it’s a unique and tasty treat. The bagel comes in halves, but they’re generous with the smoked salmon, so you’ll definitely feel satisfied. The Cauliflower Benny is also incredibly delicious.
Where to Stay in Vancouver
HI Vancouver Jericho Beach
Media credit: vancouver_hi
Address: 1515 Discovery Street
Phone: +1 604-224-3208
Pricing: $
If you’re on a budget but you’d like to be near downtown, HI Vancouver at Jericho Beach offers all the basic comforts of a hotel room. This hostel is at Kitsilano, so you’re close to the beaches and parks.
If you upgrade to a premium room ($105.52), you’ll have your own private bathroom. Inside, there’s a cafe, a guest kitchen, a laundry, sports equipment and games, and bike rentals and storage.
Rosewood Hotel
Media credit: rosewoodhotelgeorgia
Address: 801 W Georgia Street
Phone: +1 604-682-5566
Pricing: $$$
Rooms at the Rosewood Hotel are pricey, but for good reason. Located in downtown Vancouver, the hotel features elegantly designed rooms, a sophisticated restaurant, and an art deco-inspired indoor pool.
The hotel’s character shines through in its spacious, comfortable rooms. Plus, it’s in a lively area with the Vancouver Art Gallery and entertainment district right across the street.
Sylvia Hotel
Media credit: thesylviahotel
Address: 1154 Gilford Street
Phone: +1 877-681-9321
Pricing: $$
Situated on English Bay near Stanley Park, the Sylvia Hotel is just five minutes from downtown Vancouver and close to the Lions Gate Bridge for easy trips north. Built in 1912, the Sylvia Hotel is a Vancouver landmark and one of the city’s greatest treasures.
The simple rooms come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Enjoy a casual meal at the restaurant, which has a patio with views of the bay.
Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier
Please embed:
Media credit: pinnaclepierhotel
Address: 138 Victory Ship Way
Phone: +1 604-986-7437
Pricing: $$
Situated in North Vancouver, the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier offers a modern stay just a ferry ride from downtown. Its contemporary rooms come with balconies showcasing either mountain or waterfront views by Burrard Inlet.
The hotel features two casual seafood restaurants, a cocktail lounge with live entertainment, a gym, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, yoga studio, and free loaner bikes.
Barclay Hotel
Media credit: xv250.tatsuya
Address: 1348 Robson Street
Phone: +1 604-688-8850
Pricing: $
The Barclay Hotel boasts a fantastic central location, within easy walking distance of major landmarks and attractions in downtown Vancouver. As the only budget-friendly option on this iconic street, it offers great value in the heart of the city.
You can enjoy a continental breakfast, and unwind at the cozy bar beneath the hotel, where you can sip on beers and cocktails.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Vancouver
Transit: get real-time information and updates on bus arrivals, bus capacity predictions, real time vehicle locations, and special service alerts.
Street Food Vancouver: locate the nearest food trucks and food carts, with up-to-the-minute schedules so you can always find them.
Meetup: meet communities of people in your area who share the same interests as you.
Uber: book a ride anywhere in Vancouver, lets you track the driver’s location in real-time on the app and provide an estimated time of arrival.
iOs | Android
