Vancouver tours

The currency used in Vancouver is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Order some from your bank before you go or use your debit card at an ATM once you arrive to stock up.

English is the primary language spoken in Vancouver.

We recommend spending two to three days in Vancouver to see its highlights, including Stanley Park, Gastown, and the waterfront. Our Vancouver tour packages include two days in this dynamic city.

Known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life, Vancouver offers plenty to locals and visitors alike. Some of the most popular things to do on our Vancouver tours include:

• Exploring downtown. Vancouver’s vibrant downtown is well worth a day of exploring. From its historic Chinatown and Gastown neighborhoods to the shops, restaurants, and bars on pedestrian-only Robson Street, there’s plenty to enjoy.

• Strolling the waterfront. Vancouver’s waterfront is a great place to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and lively cultural scene. You’ll find the 2010 Winter Olympics Village, the Vancouver Seawall—a nearly 18-mile walking and biking path—and many markets, shops, and restaurants.

• Sightseeing in Stanley Park. Canada’s most visited park serves stunning views of the city skyline and harbor. It also boasts other attractions, including the Vancouver Aquarium, Brockton Point Lighthouse, and Siwash Rock.

• Greetings. When meeting new people, a handshake is a common and acceptable way to introduce yourself. However, many people also embrace diverse customs from their cultural backgrounds, so be open to various greetings.

• Politeness and respect. Politeness is highly valued in Canadian culture. Use “please” and “thank you” in your interactions and show respect towards others’ personal space and opinions.

• Tipping. It’s customary to leave 15–20% as a tip at restaurants and cafes and for services like taxis and hairdressers.

Vancouver’s temperate maritime climate is characterized by mild, wet winters and relatively cool, dry summers. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean influences its weather patterns: The ocean acts as a moderating factor, resulting in relatively mild and stable temperatures throughout the year.

• Spring. Spring in Vancouver is characterized by gradually warming temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 54–59 F.

• Summer. Pleasantly warm but not overly hot, summer days in Vancouver range from 68–77 F.

• Fall. Cooler temperatures are typical during the Vancouver fall, with highs ranging from 57–64 F. Fall is generally drier than winter and spring, and the city’s parks and gardens display beautiful autumn colors.

• Winter. With average daytime temperatures ranging from 41–46 F, Vancouver winters are mild by Canadian standards.

Ultimately, the best time to book a tour of Vancouver is whenever best suits your needs, preferences, and the activities you wish to experience. Here are some considerations for different times of the year:

• Summer (June to August). Summer is the peak tourist season in Vancouver due to its mild and pleasant weather. It’s ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city’s parks and gardens. Summer is also an excellent time to take a whale-watching tour, hike in nearby mountains, and enjoy outdoor festivals and events.

• Fall (September to November). Fall’s cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a picturesque environment. The city is less crowded than it is in the summer, allowing for a more relaxed tour experience. Fall is also an excellent time to explore parks, attend festivals, and take scenic drives to view the changing leaves.

• Winter (December to February). The offseason for tourism in Vancouver, winter offers quieter attractions and lower hotel rates. While the city experiences milder winters than in other parts of Canada, it can still be wet and rainy. Winter group tours to Vancouver may include visits to festive Christmas markets and holiday light displays, and participation in winter sports in the nearby mountains.

• Spring (March to May). Spring is a delightful (and less crowded) time to visit Vancouver: The city bursts to life with budding flowers and cherry blossoms. There are also a number of festivals and events to attend, including the Vancouver International Film Festival and the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Known as the Emerald City for its lush forests and green spaces, Vancouver combines natural beauty and cultural experiences into a vibrant cityscape. Here are some of the best places to visit on one of our Vancouver trip packages:

• Stanley Park. This is a must-visit on any tour to Vancouver, providing spectacular views of the city and the mountains. You can walk, bike, or picnic in the park. There’s also a petting zoo, a children’s farm, and several other attractions.

• World Trade Center. A popular tourist destination, the World Trade Center offers superb city and harbor views. You can enjoy a 360-degree vista of Vancouver from the top floor, and a museum on the ground floor tells the story of the building and its role in Vancouver’s history.

• Gastown. This historic district is the oldest neighborhood in Vancouver, known for its cobblestone streets, old-fashioned buildings, and the Gastown Steam Clock. The neighborhood also has a buzzy nightlife scene, with a number of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from.

• Granville Island. A former industrial island transformed into a popular tourist destination, Granville Island is home to stores, restaurants, and a public market. There are also a number of artisan shops and galleries, showcasing the work of local artists.

The city’s diverse culinary scene reflects its multicultural population and makes the most of its unfettered access to fresh, local ingredients. Some popular foods to try on our Vancouver tours include:

• Pacific salmon. Thanks to its location on the Pacific Coast, Vancouver made this fish into a staple of its cuisine. Try wild-caught salmon grilled, smoked, or prepared in various dishes.

• West Coast seafood. Aside from salmon, Vancouver is a great place to enjoy other fresh seafood, like spot prawns, Dungeness crab, oysters, and mussels.

• Poutine. A Canadian classic, poutine consists of french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy.

• Dim sum. Vancouver boasts a vibrant Chinatown, with numerous dim sum restaurants offering a variety of small, savory dishes. Grab a few fellow travelers and enjoy sampling this delicious and affordable Cantonese cuisine as a group.

• Craft beer. If you love local beer, Vancouver is the place to be. Here, breweries specialize in everything from IPAs to stouts to sours. There are now over 70 craft breweries in the city, making it one of North America’s best craft beer scenes.

When packing for a tour of Vancouver, consider the city’s diverse weather conditions and any activities you may have planned. Here’s a packing list to help you prepare:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing. If you visit during the summer or spring, pack warm-weather clothing, like shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses. Loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal for keeping cool and comfortable during your visit.

• Warmer layers. Bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings in the fall. If you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter, you’ll want a down coat or parka to keep warm while outdoors.

• Rain gear. A waterproof or water-resistant jacket or raincoat will help you stay dry during Vancouver’s rainy season, from October to April.

• Comfortable walking shoes. Vancouver is a great city to explore on foot, so a comfortable pair of walking shoes is a must—whether you’re strolling the waterfront or Gastown’s cobblestone streets.

Once you’ve reserved one of our guided tours to Vancouver, we’ll send you detailed information about what to bring. And don’t forget to download the free Go Ahead Tours app before you take off, so you’ll have all the info you need about your trip right in your pocket.