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Vancouver is a beautifully vibrant city located in British Columbia, Canada. It is surrounded by lush green mountains and sparkling ocean waters. Vancouver is a popular tourist destination because it offers so much to see and do. There are world-class restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, as well as activities like hiking, biking, and skiing for the outdoor enthusiast.

Vancouver is also a very diverse city. You can find people from all over the world here, and the city is full of different cultures and traditions. This is one of the things that makes Vancouver such an exciting and interesting place to visit. It is also the gateway to Vancouver Island and many smaller Gulf Islands, Whistler, and the Okanagan.

Whether your intention is to explore Vancouver and the Lower Mainland in its entirety or venture further afield, rest assured there will be no shortage of activities, both indoor and outdoor, to keep you occupied.

Vancouver (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

The hidden treasures of Vancouver

There are many hidden treasures in Vancouver that only the locals know. For instance, did you know that there is a hidden waterfall in Vancouver? This waterfall is located in Capilano River Regional Park and is only a short hike from the parking lot. While it is not the biggest waterfall in Vancouver, it is a beautiful hidden gem.

http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/parks-greenways-reserves/capilano-river-regional-park

Another treasure is the hidden beaches in Stanley Park like Third Beach and Lost Lagoon. Stanley Park is massive, and there are so many things to see and do. From the seawall to the forest, there is something for everyone.

https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/third-beach.aspx

https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-lost-lagoon.aspx

If you are looking for a hidden gem when it comes to restaurants, then check out Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie. This restaurant is located in Chinatown and specializes in authentic Chinese cuisine. The decor is beautiful, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

https://www.bao-bei.ca/

A hidden treasure when it comes to a fun-family trip is Maplewood Farm. Family-owned and operated, Maplewood Farm is located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The farm grows a variety of fruits and vegetables, and also features a petting farm, pony rides, and self-guided tours. Maplewood Farm is open year-round.

The farm was originally established in 1867 by the Maplewood family. Today, the farm is run by the fourth and fifth generations of the family. The farm supplies local restaurants and markets with fresh produce.

https://maplewoodfarm.bc.ca/

Vancouver from Cypress National Park. (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

Must-see attractions in Vancouver

Some of the must-see attractions to add to your to-do list if planning a trip to Vancouver should include:

Granville Island

This is a must-visit for foodies. Granville Island is a culinary, cultural and artistic hub in the heart of downtown Vancouver. With a public market, as well as dozens of cafes, restaurants, and food vendors, over 300 businesses are proud to call Granville Island home. The Public Market and surrounding boutiques showcase unique, handcrafted products and gifts. On a nice day, the island is an ideal spot for a waterfront picnic while soaking in the beauty of the downtown core and enjoying the various buskers who entertain the crowds. The Aquabuses offer ferry service to and from all the major destinations in False Creek, including the island. Transformed from an industrial wasteland in the 1970s, Granville Island has become one of the most charming and treasured spaces in all of Vancouver.

https://granvilleisland.com/

Granville Island. (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

Gastown

Historic Gastown is a picturesque blend of old and new. With its cobblestones, vintage lampposts and a mix of souvenir shops and art galleries housed in Victorian style buildings, Gastown has played a key role in Vancouver’s history. Not surprisingly, because of its historical significance, Gastown has received the official designation of a national historic site.

Known for its trendy food and drink scene, Gastown boasts one of the higest concentrations of top restaurants in Vancouver. A visit to Gastown would not be complete without a stroll down Water Street to see its most famous landmark, the steam powered clock (located on the corner of Cambie & Water Streets), and the 167 metre high Vancouver Lookout to get a 360 degree panoramic view of the city.

https://gastown.org/

Capilano Suspension Bridge

This bridge spans 450 feet (140 meters) across and 230 feet (70 meters) above Capilano River. It's a popular spot for tourists to get a birds-eye view of the river and the lush forest surrounding it.

https://www.capbridge.com/

Grouse Mountain and the Grouse Grind

Grouse Mountain is a popular North Vancouver recreation spot and home to the Grouse Grind, a steep and challenging 2.9-kilometre hiking trail up the side of the mountain. The Grouse Mountain gondola offers an 8 minute ride with an elevation gain of 1100 metres. Upon arrival at the top, visitors are greeted with stunning panoramic views of Vancouver and its surroundings. Apart from the beautiful scenery that awaits you, a plethora of other activities exist to keep one occupied-a bear sanctuary, ranger talks, hiking possibilities, dining patios, ziplining and more.

The grueling hike up Grouse Mountain, aptly named the ‘Grouse Grind,’ attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond who come to the North Shore to test their fitness.

The trail begins at the base of Grouse Mountain and winds its way up through the forest, with an average grade of 30% and a total elevation gain of 853 metres. The hike takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level.

There are several lookout points along the way where hikers can take a break and enjoy the stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The Grouse Grind is a great workout and an excellent way to enjoy the great outdoors.

https://www.grousemountain.com/

Grouse Mountain - Bears Grinder and Coola. (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

Robson Street

Robson Street is a major thoroughfare in Vancouver. It is named after John Robson, Premier of British Columbia from 1889 to 1892. The street is one of the busiest shopping districts in Vancouver, and is considered one of the city's premiere shopping areas. It is home to many high-end retailers, as well as Vancouver's flagship Apple Store. Robson Street is also a popular destination for tourists, and is within walking distance of many Vancouver attractions, including Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Vancouver Art Gallery.

https://robsonstreet.ca/

Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park is a beautiful, secluded spot in Vancouver that is perfect for a nature getaway. With towering trees and a rocky beach, it feels like you are worlds away from the city. The main attraction is the historic lighthouse, which is surrounded by forest trails. With a little bit of luck, seals and other marine wildlife may be spotted here. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Lighthouse Park is the ideal location.

https://www.lighthousepark.ca/

Lighthouse Park, Vancouver. (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is Vancouver's oldest park. The 132-hectare (325-acre) green space is located just south of the downtown core and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Standing 125m above sea level, Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver and consequently offers spectacular views of not only the park itself, but also the city of Vancouver and the North Shore mountains. The park is home to a number of features including the Vancouver Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club, the Vancouver Museum, the Bloedel Conservatory, and Quarry Gardens.

The park was originally named after Queen Victoria, but was renamed in her honour after her death in 1952. The park is well-known for its beautiful gardens, and is a popular spot for weddings and other events. The park is also a popular place for photography, and has been featured in a number of films and TV shows.

Queen Elizabeth Park is a great spot for a picnic, a game of tennis, pitch & putt golf or just a leisurely stroll. The park is open year round, and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in Vancouver.

https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx

English Bay Beach, Vancouver. (check out our shop for full resolution pictures and canvas prints)

Deep Cove

Deep Cove is a small community nestled in the mountains of North Vancouver. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. The area is also home to many local artists and musicians. The village’s downtown consists of a single street dotted with restaurants, coffee shops and an ice cream parlour or two. It’s a quaint little village, well worth a visit.

https://www.dnv.org/programs-and-services/deep-cove

Vancouver Art Gallery

This gallery is one of the largest art museums in Canada and houses a collection of more than 10,000 works of art.

https://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/

Stanley Park

This is Vancouver's largest urban park and it's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Stanley Park is home to beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and a world-famous aquarium.

https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx

Vancouver Lookout/Top of Vancouver

Head to the Vancouver Lookout to see the city from new heights! The Vancouver Lookout is one of the city's most popular attractions, offering stunning 360-degree views of Vancouver, the North Shore Mountains, and beyond.

The Vancouver Lookout is located in the heart of the downtown core, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the city. After taking in the stunning views, head down to street level and explore the many shops, restaurants, and attractions that Vancouver has to offer.

https://www.topofvancouver.com/

Whether you're looking for an action-packed vacation or a relaxing getaway, Vancouver is sure to have something for you.

Vancouver and the highlights of the Rocky Mountains (Calgary - Vancouver round trip)

If you enjoy road trips and want to experience the Canadian Rocky Mountains as well, we recommend starting your trip in Calgary via Highway One with stops in Banff, Golden, Revelstoke and Kamloops before arriving in Vancouver. On the way back you could take the slightly longer route via Jasper with either a stopover in Lake Louise or Edmonton on your way back to Calgary. On this round trip, you will be able to see all the highlights of the Rocky Mountains between Calgary and Vancouver. We will cover the Calgary - Vancouver road trip in a separate article in detail, so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss it.

Budget-tip for coffee lovers: Before you start your trip and leave Calgary, hit a local Dollarama and buy some coffee for the road trip and save big. The Starbucks coffees (Frappucino Mocca and Vanilla) are only 2.5 CAD at the Dollarama - in any other store usually over 2.75 CAD, and remember that in British Columbia the sales taxes are also higher. The same coffee will cost you 140% more in taxes after you cross the border to British Columbia (Alberta sales tax = 5 %, British Columbia sales tax = 12%). Also, chips and other food and beverages, that could come in handy for a longer trip, are usually cheaper at the Dollarama, so check it out and stock up.

Check out our articles on Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore and Jasper if you need some inspiration for the trip, and make sure you book not only your flight but also a rental car well in advance, since rental companies are usually completely booked out for the summer by the beginning of May. But fear not, if you check out Turo you will for sure find a car-sharing vehicle for your holiday, possibly even for a better daily rate than what is offered at the car rental…and with delivery right to the airport terminal upon your arrival in Calgary!

We list our cars also on Turo and offer a 5% early bird discount for bookings 7 or more days in advance, a 5% discount for any bookings longer than 3 days, and a 10% discount for bookings longer than 7 days.

When booking one of our cars we will plant a tree in North America and issue you a Tree Gift Certificate (see here for more information)

2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i AWD (Midsize SUV, 5 seats)