5 Reasons To Visit Vancouver
Vancouver is consistently voted one of the most liveable cities in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The variety of shopping spots, from Robson Street to designer malls; the natural charm of 1000-acre Stanley Park or the surrounding peaks of the Coastal Mountains; the artist’s scene, from the funky hotspot of Granville Island to the selection of museums….Vancouver is guaranteed to have something for you. Here are our top 5 reasons to visit Vancouver on your next trip to Canada:
1. World-class Shopping
Head down to Robson Street and you’ll soon realise why Vancouver is said to be one of the most stylish cities in Canada. Whether you’re looking for designer goods, luxury watches or fashionable clothing- you’re sure to find it here. Visit the various boutiques of Yaletown and Gastown and treat yourself to bespoke jewellery or unique outfits. Consider taking a trip to West 4th Avenue; the street is full of outdoor supply shops (perfect to buy everything you need to take a hike in the surrounding Coastal Mountains!), fashionable stores and yoga studios (if you want to feel extra good in the clothes you’ve just bought!).
2. Beautiful Markets
Granville Island Market boasts over 50 permanent booths and approximately 100 vendors day-to-day. One of the best-known markets on the West Coast, it offers everything from fruits, nuts and sweets to bespoke hand-made wooden gifts. If you’re too busy exploring Vancouver in the daytime to take a trip to Granville Island Market, head down to the Richmond Night Market. The largest night market in North America, it is famous for its sizzling street food.
3. Breath-taking adventure
Though it may be considered to be a cosmopolitan haven, Vancouver has plenty of attractions for those who are feeling a little more adventurous. Grab your hiking boots and head out to one of the many hiking trails in the surrounding Coastal Mountains. For those wanting a challenge, make sure you take part in the Lions Binkert Hike, a trail with a 1,280-metre elevation! It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted… but worth it for the beautiful scenery! Perhaps take a visit to one of Vancouver’s best tourist attractions, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and immerse yourself in the temperate rainforest. The bridge stretches 137 metres across, and 70 metres above, the Capilano River. Only the brave can look over the rails to the rushing waters below… or you can go for the calmer option and learn all about salmon at the fish Hatchery!
4. The thriving art scene
The art scene in Vancouver is thriving, and there’s plenty to see- both indoors and outdoors! Head down to Gallery Row in Granville, an area full of artist studios and open galleries; there are 17 art galleries and antique dealers open for business daily- make sure to buy unique pieces to take home as a souvenir of your time in Vancouver! Visit Stanley Park and make sure to keep an eye out for the nine totem poles that stand proudly in the park; they are a celebration of the First Nations people of British Columbia. Lastly, make sure to spend time at Vancouver Art Gallery: it truly captures the cultural ethos of the country. Rotating exhibitions mean you’re likely to see something different every time you visit!
5. Foodies haven
There is a food revolution sweeping Vancouver; food carts are on most street corners and are definitely worth a try. There’s even an app to track where the food carts themselves! Try out one of the famous Vancouver Foodie Tours; taste your way through the world-famous Granville Island Public Market like a VIP Foodie! Indulge in an incredible variety of mouth-watering artisan products and tastings, handpicked by an expert team. The tours offer a unique insight into all of the excellent eats, treats and attractions that Vancouver has to offer- and you’re sure to hear some intriguing stories along the way.
All in all, Vancouver’s appeal is undeniable. Visit, and you will fall in love with the friendly atmosphere, endless opportunities for adventure, award-winning food and drink and much more. Prepare to find your new favourite city- you may never want to leave.
Inspired to explore this amazing destination, request our brochure here. If this article has inspired you to visit Vancouver, our team of expert advisors would be happy to personalise your perfect holiday, just call us on 0161 888 5632 or click here to explore more holidays with First Class Holidays.
