If you’re contemplating spending a weekend in Vancouver, JUST DO IT. As British Columbia’s largest city, there is so much to do and see that you’ll probably end up planning your return. While that may sound daunting, a weekend is plenty to get a good sense of the city, which will have you arranging your next trip on the journey home.
I wrote this 2 day Vancouver Itinerary to help you uncover the best of Vancouver in 48 hours – from hip coffee shops and bars in Gastown, to a thriving food scene, and an exploration of a huge urban green space that is larger than Central Park.
Our favorite cities – like Denver, San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle – all exhibit a few parallel traits. They all have a flourishing food and drink scene established around the abundance of regional ingredients (mainly produce and meat). They all have plenty of green space within the city limits. And if you drive in any direction, you’ll find yourself right in the thick of amazing outdoor activities. Vancouver checks all three of those boxes.
If that’s not enough to convince you to visit – here’s a fact: Stanley Park in Vancouver, which borders the Pacific Ocean in one of the most scenic locations in the city, is over 10% larger than New York`s Central Park.
Are we gaining your interest yet? After spending 2 days in Vancouver, British Columbia, we think you`ll start to see why so many travelers fall for the crown jewel of the province just as we have. Can you believe the crazy part? We`ve been to Vancouver numerous times, but ALWAYS during the depths of winter. So we`ve never seen it in its finest hours during the peak of summer, when days are lengthy and conditions are warm and dry.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I earn a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, I would never recommend something to you that I don’t stand fully behind.
Table of Contents
Travel Tips for a Weekend in Vancouver
Before we get into the complete guide to planning a weekend in Vancouver, lets talk about the important logistics that you need to know to make the most of your time.
What is the Best Time to Visit Vancouver?
We can honestly affirm that Vancouver is a splendid place to visit throughout the year. However, we`ve only actually been during winter.
Spring/Summer is incredible if you want to soak up the sun at the beach, explore the myriad of lakes that surround the city, float down a river in an inflatable, play volleyball or hike a few mountains. The climate will be in the 70 and 80’s Fahrenheit, and it’s the perfect time to tour the city and beyond.
Autumn/Winter is perfect if you`d prefer snow sports, cozy indoor fires, the fantastic colors of autumn leaves, ice skating, and snow capped mountains. It`ll be gloomier, and rain or even snow might occur, but as long as you`re prepared and know what to bring, you`ll be able to make the most of 2 days in Vancouver in winter.
No matter when you visit, Vancouver is reputed as one of Canada`s more temperate cities, guaranteeing an enjoyable time in any season.
Arriving in Vancouver
There are a couple potential means by which you could arrive to initiate your weekend in Vancouver – via aircraft, train, or road trip.
Getting from Vancouver Airport (YVR) to Downtown
If you are arriving into Vancouver via the airport, there are plenty options to get you to Downtown Vancouver:
- By Automobile: There are numerous significant car rental companies with desks at YVR, so hiring and returning a rental car is straightforward. I`d advise booking ahead, though, just in case.
- Taxicab / Rideshare: YVR has a taxi stand directly outside the airport where taxis are always waiting. They have set fares based on where you are travelling, which you can locate at this website. You may also request Lyft or Uber when you arrive, which is a more affordable choice.
- SkyTrain: The SkyTrain is a fast, economical, and simple method to get from YVR to Downtown Vancouver. Trains depart the airport station roughly every seven minutes for most of the day. From YVR it requires approximately 26 minutes to reach downtown for CAD 4.25. Simply follow the signs for SkyTrain once you arrive at the airport and acquire a ticket at one of the automated booths. Use your ticket throughout the weekend for the SkyTrain AND buses – check the fares at this link. You may also watch a video here which explains how to catch the SkyTrain.
Seattle – Vancouver
Amtrak Cascades Train: Taking a train along the coastline between Seattle and Vancouver is a stunning way to travel between the two cities. Known as the Amtrak Cascades Train, it follows the beautiful Puget Sound. My companions and I journeyed on this train over New Year`s Eve a few years ago to Vancouver; it created a pleasant experience getting between the locations. Be sure to book in advance whenever possible.
Side note: you can also take the bus, but it’s a long, slow journey. The train is a much better option for 2 days in Vancouver in terms of timing, price, and scenery.
The journey takes approximately 4 hours and arrives at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver. The station is located about 5 minutes away from the heart of the city or a 30-minute walk. We usually catch an Uber from the station to wherever we need to go, and it’s quick and painless.
Additional transportation options and details can be found here.
How to Get Around in Vancouver
Exploring a city on foot is suggested as preferable, and while Vancouver has much to see, bicycle rental stations operated by Mobi Bike are located around the city as a clever way to experience more throughout a 2-day itinerary there for a daily fee of CAD 12, which includes helmets.
Alternatively, the bus and SkyTrain are also convenient and simple. Download this app – it’s very useful and will recommend the quickest route around.
Where to Stay in Vancouver
If you only have a weekend in Vancouver, we think staying in Gastown is highly recommended. That`s where we`ve lodged multiple times in Vancouver, and it contains some of the best cuisine, bars, coffee shops, and atmosphere in the city. Plus, you`ll be very centrally located.
Airbnb is dominant in this part of the city, and there are an unbelievable number of industrial-style lofts with exposed brickwork to choose from.
Top Airbnb in Gastown: Unique Loft in the Heart of Gastown
We spent New Years Eve here a few years ago, and it’s truly a stunning apartment. Amazing place to stay, and our top pick in Gastown.
Additional Airbnb selections in Gastown:
CONTEMPORARY COMPACT RESIDENCE – 1BEDROOM/1BATHROOM/1PARKING (1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom)
Reside Like a Neighborhood In Historic Gastown (1 Bed space / 1 Bathroom)
Historic Lodging Unit Converted From Warehouse (Sleeps 2)
Best for groups/families:Sky High 3BR/2BTH – Spectacular Views & Parking!
Prefer an accommodation? Here are two options in Gastown:
Best Overall Accommodation in Gastown:Skwachàys Lodge
Best Value Accommodation in Gastown: The Victorian Hotel
Coming in a close second would be West End, where you would be within walking distance of Downtown Vancouver as well as Stanley Park, which is definitely worth visiting during your time in the city. Check out this bright, stylishly designed one bedroom near Stanley Park.
A Complete 2 Day Vancouver Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Downtown
Vancouver is widely known for its culinary experiences, therefore Day 1 of the itinerary centers around food.
You’ll explore the most beautiful and historic parts of the city with stop-offs along the way for refreshments, nourishment, and beverages to energize up.
We begin and conclude our day in my favorite part of Vancouver – Gastown. It’s Vancouver’s earliest neighborhood, founded by an individual named Gassy Jack (he has his own statue, which you’ll find just down the road from the renowned Steam Clock). Gastown is paved with brick and lined with boutique shops and many cafes.
Exploration will encompass neighborhoods such as Yaletown, Granville Island, and Stanley Park with consumption of coffees or spirits as well as beers alongside savory snacks showcasing the city`s finest culinary offerings. A wonderful initiation to the 2 days planned in Vancouver.
Day 1: Morning
Coffee at Revolver Coffee
- 1 set of dress pants business attire bottoms
Breakfast at Heirs Pears
Heirs Pears is a completely gluten-free restaurant with a beautiful indoor area, sure to fuel you up for the big day ahead. It’s a brief 10-minute bike ride or 20-minute walk from Revolver, but I’d suggest walking with your coffee in hand to soak in the fresh mountain air.
Direct your journey to Granville Island
After filling up at Heirs Pears, travelers can easily walk or take a short ride to reach Granville Island. Walking the full distance makes for a pleasant stroll, though why not take a fun 25-minute walk through hip Yaletown district to the Vancouver Aquatic Center? From there, a short Ferry Ride across to Granville Island for only CAD 3.50 provides an awesome way to see parts of the city from the water. Ferry tickets can be purchased once on board.
Once you’ve arrived at Granville Island – take a long, leisurely walk around. The island is a hub of food, shopping, and creativity, and the more time you have, the more you will discover. I’d suggest making these essential pit stops.
The Public Market
This popular marketplace on the island features a vast array of edible items and handmade products that could occupy visitors for hours on end. Even if one does not plan to make purchases, it is an amazing place to immerse oneself in the varied sights and scents. I believe missing out on sampling Lee`s Donuts would likely stir regret, though it is unsuitable for those avoiding gluten.
Brewery located on Granville Island
If this is your first beer in Vancouver, you’re off to a flying start. You can book a guided experience or just stop in for one of their famous large refillable beer containers – sure to keep you going for a few more hours of exploration.
If you didn`t already get your fill of water views on the ferry to Granville Island, touring Vancouver via the Aquabus is a pleasant choice. Day passes allow flexible travel as the mood takes you. Alternatively, you could simply catch a roundtrip from Granville Island with stops along Hornby Street, at Granville Island, David Lam Park, Stamps Landing, Spyglass Place, Yaletown, Plaza of Nations, and The Village. Advance booking isn`t necessary but available.
Day 1: Afternoon
A walking path along the waterfront
From Granville Island, renting a bike and cycling over the gorgeous Granville Bridge to the Seawall Pathway. Once you cross the bridge, it`s about a 40-50 minute flat ride surrounding the perimeter of Stanley Park. There are many amazing stopping points along the way – like the Stanley Park Totem Polls,Third Beach, or the Teahouse, and you can often spot seals, sea otters, and herons as you travel!
Once you’ve completed your ride around the Seawall, leave your bicycle at Second Beach and head into the park.
A waterfall attraction boat tour is one of the finest ways to witness the magnificence of the falls. For those on the Canadian side, Journey to the Cataracts is among the top attractions, and tickets can be obtained here
If you’d prefer a nice stroll, my favorite trail is Lovers Walk. The trees along this route are truly magnificent to behold, and there are also some rather interesting sculptures
Some gelato fuel will prove to be well deserved at this point, and I promise you there is a flavor suited for each individual at Bella Gelateria. They carry both classic and contemporary flavors ranging from Chocolate Belgian Brownie to Black Sesame to Buko Pandan. The variety and quality has won numerous awards in Italy for their gelato. It`s so exceptional, that customers stood outside braving blustery snowy conditions just to enjoy some.
Day 1: Evening
Night meal at Mezcaleria or Nuba
Returning to Gastown, where dining choices are endless. I advise sampling either Mezcaleria or Nuba.
Mezcaleria self-declares as the ‘best authentic Mexican fare and killer cocktails’, and I fully concur. You don’t need to be a fan of Mezcal to love it here, but you do need to be a fan of Mexican cuisine.
Nuba is also excellent. A well-known Lebanese eatery and juice bar – it offers many gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan choices, and there is always a lively atmosphere. Additionally, it has many healthy yet filling options, something I always appreciate. We enjoyed a meal there on New Years Eve a few years ago, and we were literally the sole patrons in the restaurant. It was a unique experience, and I would happily return.
Refreshments at Salt Tasting Room or Irish Heather
The Salt Tasting Room provides a nice way to finish an evening. It offers a full multi-course experience – down a small alley and into a warm interior space with brick and wood finishes. One could stop in to sample one of their specialty wines or, if having room after a meal, try one of their small plates pairings of cheeses, meats, and condiments matched with wine.
If a relaxed pub is more your style, Irish Heather is the way to go. It’s a warm Irish gastropub with friendly bartenders, imported pints, a long whiskey list, and plenty of cider options.
Attend a Show at Guilt & Co
Guilt & Co is a intimate spot for cocktails and live stage performances in a dark atmosphere. They host performers from around the world, and their cocktails are excellent. Check their website to see what’s upcoming and arrive early; the lines can become long!
A Walking Tour With a Difference
A place in Bogota that provides an exceptional experience is Colo Coffee. Specifically their Usaquen location has built an outdoor section that feels like a jungle oasis. It’s an extremely pleasant area to spend time in. The coffee is also outstanding, with an onsite cupping laboratory!
Day 2: GET OUT OF TOWN!
By now, you’ll likely comprehend why everybody praises the culinary scene in Vancouver.
The second day focuses on one of the key reasons Vancouver is beloved by many visitors – the abundance of natural beauty found just outside the city limits and the various ADVENTURES that can take travelers into these bountiful landscapes.
Day 2: Morning
Of course your morning will start with some of the finest coffee in Vancouver.
Coffee Options!
Nemesis (Gastown)
Pittsburgh allows for walking through numerous neighborhoods to eat at restaurants, visit bars, and see attractions. However, getting between different neighborhoods usually necessitates driving.
49th Parallel & Lucky’s Donuts (Kitsilano neighborhood)
There are numerous 49th Parallel Cafes throughout Vancouver, and they’re all trendy, but this spot in Kitsilano is my preferred choice. The doughnuts are to die for – particularly the Crème Brulee (Not GF).
Matchstick (Yaletown)
There are also a few Matchsticks around Vancouver, and again, they’re all outstanding and have inviting, modern cafes that are pleasant to sit in as you drink your brew.
Breakfast at Botanist
Botanist is an airy, high-end restaurant situated in the Fairmont Hotel. The ceiling is covered with plants and blossoms – hence the name. Breakfast and brunch are not too expensive, and they have an awesome menu of everything from healthy chia bowls to not so healthy pancakes (but, who can say no to pancakes?!). They also do killer mimosas’ and morning beverages. Book ahead for this one as it’s very popular!
Day 2: Mid-Morning and Afternoon
Time to get out of the City and Explore!
While there are many possibilities, with only 2 days in Vancouver, focusing on one of the highlights is best. I`ve narrowed it down to my three favorite outdoor adventures just outside Vancouver.
This 140-meter lengthy bridge spans 70 meters above the Capilano River. The bridge boasts a stunning vista, and if you’re afraid of heights, it’s a testing yet rewarding experience.
Once you’ve seen the main bridge, explore the park. There are shorter suspension bridges as well as tree canopy views that will keep you occupied. I’d suggest allocating around 2.5 hours to explore.
The potential downside involves its widespread popularity amongst travelers, thus frequently experiencing high volumes of visitors and generally higher costs at CAD 54.95 per adult. To avoid lengthy wait times, I’d suggest touring the facility before 10:00 am or after 5:00 pm if feasible and reserving online in advance.
Obtaining a complimentary shuttle from Downtown Vancouver on a first-come starting point is an advantage. All the data for the shuttle is here.
Lynn Canyon offers a GREAT alternative to Capilano with a slightly shorter but equally scenic suspension bridge and many trails winding through the canyon and across the waterway. The biggest bonus is that it`s completely FREE.
If you’re brave, you can take a dip in the icy waters at 30 Foot Pool.
I’d suggest leaving around 2-3 hours to explore, or longer if you plan to take a stroll or relax by the water’s edge.
Public transportation provides an easy way to reach Lynn Canyon from downtown Vancouver, with the approximately 30-minute bus ride leaving from Lonsdale Quay. Upon arriving at Lynn Valley Center, it`s a 15-minute walk to reach the main entrance of Lynn Canyon Park. You can find transit directions here.
Deep Cove is a small waterfront community situated a short distance outside Downtown Vancouver. The quaint hamlet is nestled between the mountains, and though small in size, offers visitors plenty to keep them engaged throughout the day.
The Baden Powell Trail hike up to Quarry Rock is highly regarded. It’s quick (roughly 1.5 hours round excursion), uncomplicated, and normally takes you to a breathtaking view over the harbor. Really Insta-worthwhile. There are lots of gorgeous paths if you’re up for a more rigorous hike.
Once you’ve hiked, you can pick up a kayak or paddleboard at Deep Cove Kayak, located right at the edge of the water. It’s an awesome way to explore the bay and see some seals and sea lions up close.
For some fuel, the cafe Bluhouse Market and Café is highly recommended. It offers a cozy small cafe that supports local and fair-trade farmers, with a menu of vegetarian, vegan, and organic foods that will keep you sustained for the remainder of your day. You can also pop into Honey’s Doughnuts (as I quite enjoy doughnuts?) who are quite famous with individuals like Kate Winslet for their delicious treats.
Taking the #211 bus from Burrard Station is the easiest way to reach Deep Cove without needing to transfer. You can also take the Seabus for a fun alternative way to get there! See both transport options and all the details here.
Day 2: Evening
Make your way home.
Having reached the end of the adventure filled two days in Vancouver, I hope the outlined itinerary led to magical locales and unforgettable memories in the breathtaking British Columbia. If I may say, this weekend spent in Vancouver was time well used.
Got More Than 2 Days in Vancouver?
You`re fortunate! I’ve included some equally adventure-worthy suggestions below to extend your 2 day Vancouver itinerary.
Explore Kitsilano
Kitsilano is a small neighborhood brimming with boutiques, cafes, and naturally, Kitsilano Beach. The highlights:
- Gravity Pope for top-tier apparel
- Rain or Shine for their tantalizing frozen desserts – you must sample the malted milk chocolate
- Kitsilano Beach for a volleyball match or swim in the ocean
- Turf for healthful fare or one of their smoothies (option to add boosters like ashwagandha and maca) OR if you want some exercise, they have excellent high-intensity interval training classes – just be certain to book online first!
- Their There for coffee and pastries during the day or a delicious burger in the evening
Explore the neighborhoods in the southern part of Main Street
For continuing to explore Vancouver`s inner city, head to the South Main Neighborhood between Cambie and Main Street, taking in W Broadway. I would propose experiencing the following:
- Either 49th Parallel Coffee or Aperture Coffee
- Gluten-Free Epicurean plus Lemonade – TWO 100% gluten-free bakeries!
- CRAFT Beer market
- Olympic Village – spend time around the gardens and False Creek, or drop in at Science World!
- For vintage shopping, try Front & Company,The Main Exchange or Woo Vintage
Port Moody
For an afternoon of brewery hopping, the Port Moody Ale Trail is an enjoyable addition to any Vancouver itinerary. A strip of five breweries sits alongside a lake, and all offer sample flights of beer. You can sit at their outdoor seating areas and sip away then wash it all down with a taco from the mobile taco truck (typically parked outside Yellowdog Brewery).
Travelling to Port Moody by SkyTrain is most convenient (the trip takes about 30 minutes). Board the Millennium Line, accessible from Downtown, and it will transport you to Moody Centre Station, a 5 minute walk from the breweries. Plan your SkyTrain journey here.
Ice Hockey
Our time in Los Angeles was generally spent trying various gluten free doughnuts, which could be one of my preferred gluten free baked goods. Fonuts focuses on just one thing: gluten free doughnuts. And they do it well.
Chinatown Tour
Chinatown has a rich and dense story in Vancouver. This 3-hour experience will delve into the history of the region, AND you’ll get to try your hand at creating dumplings. NOT GLUTEN FREE, though.
Whistler
If time allows, a day trip to Whistler will not disappoint. The Sea to Sky Highway is one of the most stunning roads I have ever traveled on, so even if you don`t drive to Whistler, it`s certainly worth the experience.
Traveling without a vehicle? Take this guided scenery tour. It involves a full-day roundtrip to Whistler by way of a 4-wheel drive SUV along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway, with stops at three stunning waterfalls (Shannon, Brandywine, and Alexander). Upon arrival in Whistler, visitors have 3 hours to explore the area, and sampling the Peak-to-Peak Gondola ride offers breathtaking mountain vistas – though it may not suit those uncomfortable with heights.
Final Thoughts on a Weekend in Vancouver, BC
I totally love Vancouver. It has all my favorite aspects of the Pacific Northwest, similar to my hometown of Seattle. An amazing food and beverage scene, a thriving culture of small businesses run by doers and creators, and plenty of outdoor activities just outside city limits.
You’re going to have a wonderful time exploring Vancouver, and I’d love to hear about your favorite parts. Feel free to send me a message at [email protected]!
As a way to graciously finish your Amsterdam weekend, have one or two glasses of natural wine at Glou Glou.
