Vancouver is one of the most popular travel destinations in North America. Located on the west coast of Canada, the city is bordered by coastal cliffs and the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. If you plan to visit Vancouver, here is a complete guide to help you in your voyage.

Best Time to Visit

While Vancouver receives tourists all year round, the best time to visit the city may depend on several factors. A few of these may include:

1. Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Vancouver. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. It’s a great time to explore outdoor attractions such as Stanley Park, visit the famous beaches, and enjoy festivals and events.
2. Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November): These shoulder seasons have mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Springtime brings blooming pink cherry blossoms meanwhile the fall season showcases the beautiful yellowing of the deciduous foliage. The temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C during these months. It’s an ideal time for hiking and exploring the city’s parks during the day.
3. Winter (December to February): Vancouver has a relatively mild winter compared to other parts of Canada, but it can still get chilly and rainy. Temperatures range from 0°C to 8°C, and occasional snowfall may occur, especially in higher elevations. This is when there are relatively no tourists and most major travel escapades are to enjoy a relaxing snowfall season amidst mesmerising urban and suburban hilly landscapes.

How to Reach?

There are several travel options available for travellers who want to visit Vancouver. A few of these are discussed below:

By Air:

If you’re an international traveller, the easiest way to reach Vancouver is by a flight to the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). On OnGoEazy, you can find direct flights to Vancouver from various international and domestic destinations including the United Kingdom.

By Cruise:

You can visit Vancouver on a cruise from almost every coastal nation. These trips are longer than flight plans but offer a more immersive travel experience across the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. Moreover, the Port of Vancouver is the largest port in Canada and a tourist attraction as well.

By Train:

Vancouver is well connected to the national rail network of Canada with regular trains from Toronto, Ottawa, Edmonton, etc. So, if you’re already in North America, taking a rail ride can offer a pleasant alternative as well. A handful of these train routes traverse mountain ranges, hills and lush green valleys that offer a remarkable experience in itself. This experience may be worth spending a little more time en route for a traveller.

In-City Transportation

Once you arrive in Vancouver, the city offers an extensive public transportation system, including buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and West Coast Express. Such dynamic travel options within the city make it easy to get around and explore the city and its surroundings.

Accommodation

Vancouver offers a diverse range of accommodation options that suit travellers of all kinds. A few of these have been discussed below:

Hotels:

Vancouver has numerous hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. Some well-known hotels include the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Marriott Pinnacle Downtown, and The Westin Bayshore, among others.

Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs):

B&Bs provide a cosy and personalised stay-over experience which is comparatively cheaper than major hotels. A few of these include Barclay House B&B, Granville House B&B, Bee & Thistle Guest House, etc.

Extended Stay Accommodations:

If you want a longer stay, consider extended-stay hotels or furnished apartments. These options typically offer more space, kitchen facilities, and amenities suitable for long-term stays. A few such examples include The Residences on Georgia, Level Furnished Living, and Landis Hotel & Suites.

Boutique Hotels:

Vancouver has several boutique hotels known for their unique charm and top-end hospitality. A few of these include OPUS Hotel, L’Hermitage Hotel, and The Listel Hotel, et al.

Major Attractions in Vancouver

When in Vancouver, you’ll never feel a dearth of attractions to visit and adventures to go on. A few of these attractions and adventures are discussed below:

Stanley Park:

Stanley Park is a large urban park near downtown Vancouver. It offers scenic views, walking and biking trails, gardens, and beaches, and is house to the Vancouver Aquarium.

Granville Island:

Granville Island is a vibrant destination known for its public market, unique shops, art galleries, theatres, and delicious food. Here you can enjoy street performers, browse local crafts, indulge in culinary delights, and take a scenic boat ride around False Creek.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park:

Located just outside the city, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is an adventure park with a suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliff walks.

Vancouver Science World:

Located at the Telus World of Science, Science World is an interactive science centre with hands-on exhibits, live science demonstrations, and immersive shows in the Omnimax theatre.

Grouse Mountain:

Grouse Mountain is a popular year-round destination for outdoor activities. In the summer, you can hike the mountain trails, enjoy panoramic views, go zip-lining, or watch the famous Lumberjack Show. In winter, the mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

Vancouver Lookout:

Visit the Vancouver Lookout for a 360-degree panoramic view of the skyline, mountains, and the surrounding area from a unique vantage point.

Vancouver International Summer Night Market:

This market features food stalls with a myriad of international street food varieties, creating a lively and flavorful atmosphere.

Conclusion

Vancouver is a natural marvel coupled with the flair of cosmopolitan urban lifestyles. It is home to people from all around the globe and welcomes travellers in the thousands, every year. This has diversified the city greatly in the recent past and has been successful in making it one of the choicest destinations for escapades of all kinds.

Plan your next vacation to discover the vibrance of Vancouver with OnGoEazy.

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