Vancouver

Canada's third-largest city, dramatically situated between mountains and ocean, known for its cosmopolitan culture, culinary scene, and outdoor recreation. It's the gateway to exploring British Columbia and offers world-class museums, parks like Stanley Park, and views of the North Shore mountains.

Things to do

• Stanley Park Seawall Walk — A scenic 8.9 km waterfront path encircling the 405-hectare urban park with views of mountains, ocean, and the city skyline.
• Grouse Mountain — Take the Skyride gondola to the peak for panoramic views of Vancouver, the Pacific, and the surrounding Coastal Mountains.
• Vancouver Art Gallery — Home to extensive collections of contemporary and historical Canadian art, including major works by Emily Carr.
• Granville Island Public Market — A vibrant covered market featuring fresh produce, seafood, artisan goods, and street food vendors under one roof.
• Museum of Anthropology — University museum housing one of the world's finest collections of First Nations art and artifacts from the Pacific Northwest.
• Capilano Suspension Bridge — Walk across a 140-meter bridge suspended 70 meters above the Capilano River with surrounding old-growth forest trails.
• Gastown Historic District — Vancouver's oldest neighborhood features Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, galleries, boutiques, and the iconic Steam Clock.

Food to try

• BC Salmon — Fresh wild Pacific salmon prepared grilled, smoked, or poached, celebrating the region's most iconic seafood.
• Dim Sum — Vancouver's large Cantonese community serves exceptional cart-based dim sum with steamed dumplings, rolls, and buns in dedicated restaurants.
• Fish & Chips — Local spots serve battered halibut or wild cod with crispy fries, reflecting the city's deep connection to Pacific fishing.
• Poutine with Local Twist — Canadian fries, gravy, and cheese curds reimagined by Vancouver chefs with Pacific seafood toppings and gourmet variations.
• Tofu and Asian Fusion — The city's multicultural Asian communities create innovative dishes blending traditional techniques with local British Columbia ingredients.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect First Nations Heritage — Vancouver sits on unceded Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh territory; acknowledge this and visit cultural institutions that center Indigenous voices.
• Dress for Rain and Layers — Pacific Northwest weather changes rapidly; bring waterproof jackets and layers even in summer, as rain is frequent year-round.
• Use Public Transit — The SkyTrain, bus, and SeaBus system is efficient and widely used; purchase a Compass card for seamless travel across the city.
• Embrace Outdoor Culture — Vancouverites prioritize hiking, cycling, and water activities; local etiquette involves respecting parks, trails, and natural spaces.