4 Days in Vancouver: A Complete Itinerary

Four days covers downtown Vancouver, Granville Island, and a North Shore mountain excursion at a comfortable pace.

Day 1: Stanley Park

Walk or bike the Stanley Park seawall, allowing a few hours for the full loop with stops for the harbor and mountain views. Spend the evening in the West End or downtown for dinner.

Day 2: Granville Island and Yaletown

Take the small ferry across False Creek to Granville Island Public Market for browsing and lunch among the food stalls. In the afternoon, explore Yaletown's converted warehouse district and waterfront.

Day 3: Gastown and a flexible day

Spend the morning in Gastown for its historic architecture and the steam clock, then use the afternoon flexibly — a museum, more of downtown, or simply a slower pace before the next day's excursion.

Day 4: North Shore mountains

Head to Grouse Mountain for the gondola ride and alpine views, or Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (or the free alternative, Lynn Canyon) for a forest-canopy walk. This is a car, bus, or tour day rather than one covered by the SkyTrain.

Getting around

The SkyTrain and walking cover downtown, Yaletown, and Gastown; the North Shore mountains need a car, bus, or organized tour.

What to pack

A rain layer regardless of season and comfortable shoes for the seawall and any mountain hiking — see our Vancouver travel guide for the fuller packing list.