Spend your first day in Vancouver experiencing the city’s finest outdoor attractions. There are three in particular that you should consider: Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Sunset Beach.

Begin your first morning in Vancouver with a bike ride around the sprawling 405-hectare Stanley Park—one of the most popular places in the city. Bike rental is conveniently available at the hotel entrance, and the ride to the park is a mere seven minutes. Once you arrive at Stanley Park, you can easily navigate your way around with marked cycling paths that take you to plenty of spots where you can snap stunning photos of the Vancouver coastline. 

One of the best views here is Prospect Point. Looking out to the beautiful Lions Gate Bridge, it is a popular stop for both locals and visitors alike. Do stop often on your bike ride to take in the fragrance of the flowers from the many gorgeous gardens in Stanley Park, and make it a point to visit famous landmarks such as the Lost Lagoon, Hollow Tree, and Beaver Lake.

Get directions to Stanley Park

There is no better place to catch sunsets in Vancouver than at Sunset beach, where you can get a front-row seat to the daily spectacle of the sun setting into the ocean, ending your first day in Vancouver on a magical note. 

Get directions to Sunset Beach from Granville Island

On day two, spend your time discovering Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s main shopping district, as well as the historic Gastown.

Start your day at Vancouver's horticultural jewel—the refreshing and lush Queen Elizabeth Park. At 125 metres above sea level, the park is at the highest point in Vancouver and offers breathtaking views of the park and its surroundings. 

Wander through the park’s beautifully landscaped quarry garden and walk amongst its arboretum’s collection of exotic, native trees. Look out for giant sculptures dotted around the park, such as those by acclaimed British artist Henry Moore, best known for his semi-abstract bronze sculpture works. There are plenty of trails to explore here, including one that leads to an unexpected waterfall in the middle of the park. 

Get directions to Queen Elizabeth Park

Switch gears next for a dose of shopping excitement along Robson and Alberni Street. Known as the main shopping street in Vancouver, this area has everything from luxury brands to street fashion and swanky restaurants. If you wish to bring home some Canadian souvenirs, Robson Street has everything you need, along with prominent North American brands and international beauty outlets. Looking for something more high-end? Alberni Street, also known as "Luxury Zone", is where you should be headed. 

Get directions to Robson Street from Queen Elizabeth Park

With rolling hills and stately mountains, devote your third day to exploring the natural beauty of North Vancouver.

Hop on the bus at the Sea Bus Terminal to North Vancouver in the morning (the ferry terminal is a 5-minute walk from Pan Pacific Vancouver). Just over 30 under 15 minutes in duration, the ferry ride is scenic and the quickest way to get to North Vancouver from your accommodation. 

Start your journey at the Lonsdale Quay Market, the main attraction of North Vancouver Waterfront. A vibrant marketplace with over 80 shops and vendors, you can enjoy locally produced food, drinks and produce, while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Next, venture a few blocks away to the Waterfront Park for a scenic and picturesque coastal stroll. 

Get directions to Lonsdale Quay Market

If you love all things floral, the Park and Tilford Gardens, known as the Jewel of the North Shore”, is a must-visit location in your Vancouver itinerary. This quiet two-acre green oasis houses eight themed gardens, including an Oriental Garden, a Magnolia Garden, and a Rose Garden. 

Get directions to Tilford Gardens from Waterfront Park