Picturesque coastal beauty meets the buzz of a big city in Vancouver, in the southwest of British Columbia. Regularly voted one of the world's most livable cities, there's plenty for tourists to enjoy in this dynamic Canadian hotspot.
Vancouver offers a variety of attractions, whether you love communing with nature or the thrill of a vibrant metropolis. Stanley Park, in the city's northwest, boasts hiking trails, gardens, a water park and Canada's largest aquarium. Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour become crowded with skiers and snowboarders during winter. When the weather warms, take a dip in the ocean or enjoy relaxing on the sand at Kitslano Beach, Jericho Beach or the Spanish Banks. In the city you'll find superb restaurants, shopping districts and leading attractions including the Vancouver Art Gallery, Canada Place and Vancouver Lookout.
Vancouver's accommodation options mostly cater to travelers who love to splurge. You'll find the finest hotels in the central business district, between the waterfront and Georgia. These high-end establishments offer superior facilities and views of Vancouver Harbour and the mountains. You'll find more budget-friendly options closer to Yaletown and False Creek. Hostels are handy to the popular nightspots of Granville Street and Gastown.
Air travelers fly in to Vancouver International Airport, nine minutes from the city center. Most people take the Canada Line train from the airport to downtown hotels. The Trans-Canada helps road travelers from the east reach Vancouver. Travelers from Seattle take Interstate 5, which turns into Highway 99 at the border.
