Vancouver
Vancouver
About Vancouver
Vancouver is a coastal city located in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Bordered by the Coast Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is recognized as one of the world's most liveable cities with one of the smallest carbon footprints of any major city in North America.
Overview
Nestled between snow-capped mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is the ideal urban addition to any Canadian winter holiday, perfect for both skiing enthusiasts and Northern Light seekers. With its mild winter temperatures, the city presents a haven of experiences, from MICHELIN Guide-acclaimed culinary delights and the enchanting Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to unique neighborhood discoveries. The climate enables a multitude of activities, merging urban adventures with mountain excursions, making Vancouver a leading destination for adventure year-round.
While each season offers its own charm, most of Vancouver's celebrated experiences are accessible throughout the year. We recommend a stay of three to four nights, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the destination and embrace the vibrant culture of the city.
Top Winter Activities in Vancouver
Vancouver is delightful & vibrant city to add to your Canadaian ski holiday! Boasting extreme natural beauty, an incredible dining and nightlife scene and a vast selection of activities, Vancouver has so much more to offer than just a quick stopover for skiers and snowboarders heading to the slopes.
Here are some of our favourite winter activities:
• City Lights: Illuminate your winter nights in Vancouver with the mesmerizing Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and the magical Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden, complemented by the vibrant Lumière event and the enchanting lights of Grouse Mountain.
• Food Tours: Explore Vancouver's vibrant food scene through guided tours with Vancouver Foodie Tours, A Wok Around Chinatown, and Vancouver Food Tours. Visit the lively Granville Island market to the historic streets of Chinatown and Gastown's culinary innovations, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences.
• Ice Hockey: Immerse yourself in Canada's beloved winter sport by attending a high-energy Vancouver Canucks game, where the thrill of hockey ignites the spirit of the city.
• Stanley Park: Explore Stanley Park's rainforest trails and the scenic Seawall for unparalleled views of Vancouver. This tranquil 1000-acre oasis is perfect for biking and walking adventures on the edge of the city.
• Arts & Culture: Dive into Vancouver's vibrant cultural scene, from the Lunar New Year celebrations and gourmet experiences at the Dine Out Vancouver Festival to exploring rich Indigenous culture through museum exhibits and art galleries.
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: The renowned outdoor attraction features the historic suspension bridge that spans the Capilano River, surrounded by lush rainforest and scenic walking trails. In the winter months the park transforms with enchanting Canyon Lights, offering a magical experience among festive lights.
• Ice Skating: Keep making winter memories in Vancouver, visit one of the outdoor ice-skating rinks in Robson Square, Shipyards, and Grouse Mountain, each offering unique views and experiences.
INSIDER TIP: Granville Island is a must-visit destination year-round, offering a particularly tranquil experience in winter. With fewer crowds, it's the perfect time to explore its markets, art galleries, food tours, and artisan shops. Getting there by Aqua Bus or False Creek Ferry provides a picturesque route and scenic tour of False Creek's waterfront.
Best Dining & Bars in Vancouver
Enjoy Vancouver's winter wonderland, from enchanting lights to culinary delights, amidst its natural beauty and cultural richness. Vancouver boasts a globally inspired dining scene, celebrated by the MICHELIN Guide. Explore sushi, Chinese feasts, molecular gastronomy, and sustainable farm-to-table options. If you aren't sure where to start, why not indulge in a Vancouver food tour? Join guided tours to Granville Island, Chinatown, and Gastown, discovering hidden culinary gems and get recommendation for where else suits your palatte.
Skiers and Snowboarder love apres-ski, keep the good times rolling and discover Vancouver's vibrant nightlife scene:
- Gastown: Step into historic Gastown for a mix of heritage bars and modern lounges amidst cobblestone streets. Don't miss the iconic Steam Clock.
- Granville Island: Enjoy waterfront bars with scenic views, complemented by artisan workshops and the vibrant Public Market.
- Robson Street: Experience the chic vibe of Robson Street's bars, offering a diverse range of cocktails and local brews.
