Framed by the Pacific Ocean and the Coastal Mountains, Vancouver is one of the most striking cities in the world. For cruise guests, it’s more than a port of embarkation – it’s a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re arriving before your sailing or staying after, Vancouver offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and energy. Every moment here feels vibrant and alive.
No trip to Vancouver is complete without a visit to Stanley Park. This 1,000-acre green oasis sits right on the edge of downtown and is often named one of the best urban parks in North America. The park’s seawall is its biggest draw – a nine-kilometre path perfect for cycling, walking, or rollerblading along the water. You’ll see mountains, ocean views, and the city skyline all in one sweep.
Stop at the Brockton Point Totem Poles, a powerful display of Indigenous art and culture. Families can enjoy the Vancouver Aquarium, home to thousands of fascinating sea creatures. Renting a bike and following the seawall is an easy and peaceful way to take in the city before heading back downtown.
Across False Creek sits Granville Island, a lively hub for food, art, and local culture. The island’s famous public market bursts with colour and flavour. Stalls overflow with artisan cheeses, pastries, fresh seafood, and local produce. Every corner smells delicious and feels alive.
Outside the market, you’ll find art studios and small galleries displaying work from local creatives. It’s the perfect spot for finding a handcrafted souvenir. If you enjoy craft beer, stop at Granville Island Brewery for a tasting flight. Getting there is part of the fun – take the Aquabus ferry from downtown for a quick, scenic ride across the water.
For a mix of nature and excitement, head to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The bridge stretches 137 metres across and hangs 70 metres above the Capilano River. Walking across offers a breathtaking view of the rainforest canopy and rushing water below.
But the bridge is only part of the experience. The Treetops Adventure lets visitors wander through a series of smaller suspension bridges high among the Douglas firs. The Cliffwalk is another highlight – a narrow glass-bottom walkway that clings to the cliff edge. The park also celebrates Indigenous heritage with storytelling and cultural displays. For a calmer experience, consider arriving early in the morning or just before sunset.
Just a short drive from the city, Grouse Mountain is known as the “Peak of Vancouver.” It offers a quick escape into the mountains without ever leaving the city behind. Take the Skyride aerial tramway, which glides 1,200 metres above sea level, offering spectacular views of the skyline and ocean.
Once at the top, you can hike, dine, or simply relax. In summer, visitors enjoy ziplining, lumberjack shows, and wildlife encounters with rescued grizzly bears. Hikers often try the Grouse Grind, a steep trail known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.” In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing or snowshoeing. End the day with dinner at The Observatory, a fine dining restaurant with sweeping views of the glittering city below.
If you love charm and character, Gastown is the place to go. This is where Vancouver began, and the neighbourhood still retains its old-world charm. Cobblestone streets, antique lamps, and Victorian buildings make every step a picturesque one.
The Steam Clock is one of Vancouver’s most photographed landmarks, puffing out clouds of steam on the hour. Explore boutique shops and galleries for locally crafted art, fashion, and unique keepsakes. Gastown’s restaurants and bars range from casual to upscale, serving everything from fresh seafood to creative cocktails. As night falls, fairy lights twinkle overhead, music spills from doorways, and the district comes alive.
Just steps from the cruise terminal at Canada Place, you’ll find the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre. The glass elevator ride to the top reveals a stunning 360-degree view of the city, harbour, and North Shore Mountains. It’s a must for first-time visitors.
Back at ground level, the Coal Harbour waterfront offers one of the city’s most scenic strolls. The seawall here is peaceful, lined with cafes and art installations. Watch seaplanes take off against the mountain backdrop, or visit the Digital Orca sculpture for the perfect photo. Just nearby, FlyOver Canada offers a thrilling flight simulation that lets you soar virtually from coast to coast.
Vancouver’s food scene is world-class. The city’s mix of cultures has created a dining landscape unlike any other in Canada. Seafood is the star here – try wild Pacific salmon or Dungeness crab, both local favourites. Sushi lovers will find some of the freshest and most affordable options outside Japan, while Chinatown’s dim sum restaurants are a must for anyone who enjoys Asian cuisine.
Waterfront dining adds even more appeal. Restaurants like Miku and Cardero’s pair delicious meals with unbeatable views. Wash it all down with a pint from a local craft brewery or a glass of BC wine. Every meal feels like part of the city’s story.
The cruise terminal at Canada Place is about 30 minutes from Vancouver International Airport by taxi or rideshare. The SkyTrain offers an easy and affordable way to reach downtown as well.
Yes – many travellers do. Staying one to three days gives you time to enjoy the city’s highlights, relax, and adjust before or after your voyage.
Downtown is compact and very walkable. Public transport is reliable, and you can also rent bikes, take ferries, or use hop-on-hop-off bus tours for sightseeing.
Absolutely. Summer is warm and lively, while spring and autumn are mild and less crowded. Winter brings nearby skiing and cosy indoor attractions.
Yes. Whistler is just two hours away via the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway. Victoria is reachable by ferry or floatplane and makes for a great day trip.
Ready to discover Vancouver for yourself? This stunning West Coast city is not just a gateway — it’s the perfect beginning or end to an unforgettable cruise holiday. Book your next Alaska or Pacific Coast voyage from Vancouver with Bolsover Cruise Club and experience one of the world’s most scenic sailing routes.
Set sail with leading cruise lines departing from Vancouver, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean. Journey through glacier-carved fjords, spot whales and eagles in the wild, and enjoy breathtaking views as your ship departs from the iconic Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place.
Whether you’re extending your stay before embarkation or adding extra nights post-cruise, our expert team can help you create a seamless holiday experience. From flights and transfers to pre-cruise hotel stays and sightseeing, we’ll take care of every detail so you can simply relax and explore. If you’d like to learn more about cruises from Vancouver to Alaska, Hawaii, or the Pacific Northwest, get in touch with our knowledgeable Cruise Experts today. For even more travel inspiration and cruise news, visit our Cruise News section for the latest updates, destination guides, and expert advice.
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