Vancouver

Plan Your Perfect Vancouver Holiday with Thorne Travel

Set between snow-capped mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is one of Canada’s most stunning and diverse cities. Here, urban energy blends effortlessly with the great outdoors — making it the perfect destination whether you’re into stylish city escapes, mountain adventures, or coastal strolls.

Wander through the vibrant streets of Gastown, cycle the iconic Seawall around Stanley Park, or take a gondola ride up Grouse Mountain for panoramic views. Food lovers will be spoiled for choice with Vancouver’s global dining scene, from fresh-caught sushi to sizzling Korean BBQ and waterfront seafood spots.

This is a city where you can spend your morning skiing or hiking and your afternoon shopping or sipping cocktails by the marina. It’s modern, scenic, and effortlessly cool — perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers.

Travel Guide

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Average Temperature: 7°C (Jan) to 22°C (July)

Average Flight Time from UK:Approx. 9-10 hours (direct)

Time Difference: -8 Hours

Landmarks

Vancouver is a city of contrasts, with a mix of urban charm and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Here are some must-see attractions:

Stanley Park – This 1,000-acre park is the crown jewel of Vancouver, offering lush forests, scenic seawall views, and the famous Vancouver Aquarium. It’s perfect for cycling, walking, or just relaxing in nature.

Granville Island – A bustling market and arts district located on the water, Granville Island is home to artisan shops, galleries, fresh produce, and local eateries. Don’t miss the public market, where you can enjoy local delicacies and artisanal treats.

Capilano Suspension Bridge – Walk through the towering trees and across a 137-metre-long suspension bridge above the Capilano River for stunning views of the surrounding rainforest.

Grouse Mountain – Just a short ride from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers skiing in winter and hiking in the summer. Don’t forget to take the Skyride gondola to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Vancouver Art Gallery – One of the top cultural destinations in the city, the Vancouver Art Gallery features an impressive collection of both contemporary and Indigenous art.

Cuisine

Vancouver’s culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural vibe, offering a diverse range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries:

Blue Water Cafe – Located in Yaletown, this seafood restaurant is known for its sustainable, fresh catches and its modern approach to Pacific cuisine.

Miku – A must-visit for sushi lovers, Miku serves innovative sushi and Japanese dishes with a West Coast twist, located near the waterfront with stunning views of the harbor.

Hawksworth Restaurant – An elegant dining spot in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Hawksworth offers contemporary Canadian cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.

Chambar – A cozy spot offering Belgian-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails, Chambar is perfect for those looking to indulge in both hearty dishes and lighter tapas-style plates.

Pizzeria Farina – For something more casual, this Italian pizzeria in the Mount Pleasant area serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas with a variety of unique toppings.

Accommodation

Vancouver offers a wide variety of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets, from luxury stays to charming boutique hotels:

Fairmont Pacific Rim – A luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown, featuring stunning views of the city, Stanley Park, and the North Shore Mountains. The hotel offers world-class amenities, including a rooftop pool and award-winning dining.

The Loden Hotel – This boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and a modern, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a more intimate stay with easy access to shopping and dining in the Coal Harbour area.

The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver – Known as the “Castle in the City,” this iconic hotel blends classic elegance with modern amenities, offering guests a refined stay in the heart of downtown.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia – A blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury, Rosewood Hotel Georgia is an elegant option in Vancouver’s bustling downtown, offering high-end rooms and an outstanding spa.

Hotel Belmont Vancouver – A trendy, affordable option with modern design and a laid-back vibe, located near the entertainment district and offering easy access to the best shops and restaurants in Vancouver.

Nightlife and Entertainment

When the sun sets, Vancouver’s nightlife comes alive with a mix of trendy bars, vibrant clubs, and intimate music venues:

Gastown – This historic neighborhood is full of trendy bars, craft cocktail lounges, and chic restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a night out in the city.

Robson Street – For a lively atmosphere and plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes, Robson Street is where you’ll find bustling nightlife.

The Commodore Ballroom – A classic music venue that hosts live performances by a variety of artists, from indie bands to well-known headliners.

Brix & Mortar – A cozy, yet stylish venue for cocktails and small bites, perfect for a relaxing evening out.

Caprice Nightclub – One of Vancouver’s most popular nightclubs, Caprice offers high-energy fun and great music in a stylish setting.

Outdoor Adventures

Vancouver is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities to explore its stunning natural surroundings:

Whistler – Just a short drive from Vancouver, Whistler is a year-round destination for outdoor fun, offering skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers breathtaking views year-round.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waters of English Bay or False Creek for a different perspective of the city’s stunning skyline.

Cycling – Rent a bike and cycle the Seawall around Stanley Park, or head to one of the many bike trails in the area to explore Vancouver’s vibrant neighborhoods and beautiful parks.

Hiking – Vancouver is surrounded by nature, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, including Lynn Canyon and Mount Seymour for breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean.

Day Trips

Book Your Vancouver Getaway Today!

Whether you’re exploring Vancouver’s iconic landmarks, relaxing on the beach, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, this city offers something for everyone.

Contact our Travel Experts today to start planning your unforgettable trip to Vancouver!

Vancouver

Plan Your Perfect Vancouver Holiday with Thorne Travel

Travel Guide

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Nightlife and Entertainment

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