The British Columbian city of Vancouver is bursting with a wealth of urban entertainment, cultural pursuits, outdoor adventure and fun for all the family.
Famed for its natural beauty, top-class attractions and laid-back vibe, Vancouver consistently tops the list of the world's best places to live. If you are not in a position to pack up your life and move to this vibrant city, then do the next best thing and schedule a visit into your holiday plans. The sheer number of things to do is mind-boggling. While the city is home to excellent museums, art galleries and aquariums, as well as quality shops, bars, clubs and restaurants, what sets it apart from other city destinations is the diversity of the other attractions on offer. Few other cities boast ski resorts, suspension bridges and warm sandy beaches in one breath. But Vancouver doesn’t just pay lip service to its tourism – it really does tick every box.
Set in the heart of the city centre, Robson Street is the premier shopping destination in Vancouver. Here you will find upmarket, fashionable boutiques, indulgent spas and a wealth of gourmet dining options. If you're looking for something a little more casual, make your way over to Granville Island Public Market. Overflowing with wonderful sights, sounds and smells, this bustling market is a treat. Pick up some fresh local produce at the farmers market or bag a bespoke gift at one of the artisan craft stalls.
As well as being home to a variety of fish and aquatic mammals, the family-friendly Vancouver Aquarium is a great place to learn about marine research and conservation around the shores of the Pacific. Get up close with African penguins at Penguin Point, watch out for deadly piranha and sharks, and don’t miss the chance to participate in interactive sessions with Beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters and seals.
Multiculturalism and diversity are two staples of this Canadian city and you don’t have to scratch too deeply beneath the surface to see clear evidence of this. Wander around Stanley Park and gaze up at the jaw-dropping totem poles and wood carvings of the First Nations. Then follow this with a trip to the Museum of Anthropology to contemplate the spell-binding creativity conveyed by over 500,000 indigenous artefacts that sit alongside a fascinating collection of global artwork.
With a host of outdoor adventure activities on the city's doorstep, adrenaline junkies don’t have to look far to get their thrills. Head up to Grouse Mountain and zipline across the peaks of giant Douglas Firs on a five-line circuit, try your hand at night skiing on Cypress Mountain, or test your mettle 70 metres above the roaring Capilano River as you totter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
If all this action has left you exhausted, make your way to the warm golden sands of English Bay Beach and let the sun’s rays ease out your aching bones. Keep an eye on the horizon for orca whales while you sit back and enjoy the spectacular sunset. There is simply no better way to unwind at the end of a busy day of enjoying yourself!