Day trips &
things to do
Vancouver is surrounded by extraordinary things to see. Between matches, don't just sit in your hotel — BC is one of the most spectacular places on Earth. Here's where to go.
📅 Rest day windows
Between June 13 and July 7, Vancouver hosts matches every few days — leaving perfect windows for day trips. After June 24 (Canada vs Switzerland) there's an 8-day gap to July 2 — ideal for Whistler or Victoria.
Whistler
The classic BC day trip
Whistler is one of the world's most famous mountain resorts and in summer it transforms into an outdoor adventure paradise. Hiking, mountain biking, gondola rides, and glacier walks — all surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery. The village itself is charming with great restaurants and shops.
Highlights
Getting there: Epic Rides bus runs direct from downtown Vancouver. Takes about 2 hours. Book ahead — it fills up during summer.
💡 Leave early — Whistler is busiest in the afternoon. The gondola queue is shortest before 10am.
Victoria
Canada's most British city
Victoria, the capital of BC on Vancouver Island, is one of Canada's most charming cities. Victorian architecture, world-class gardens, whale watching, and a thriving food scene. The BC Ferry crossing itself is a highlight — stunning views of the Gulf Islands.
Highlights
Getting there: BC Ferries from Tsawwassen (south of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay. About 1h35m crossing. Book ahead online — popular in summer.
💡 Book whale watching and Butchart Gardens in advance — both sell out weeks ahead in summer.
Squamish
Outdoor adventure capital
Squamish sits between Vancouver and Whistler surrounded by mountains, fjords, and forests. The Sea-to-Sky Gondola offers stunning views of Howe Sound, and the area is world-famous for rock climbing, hiking, and windsurfing. Less touristy than Whistler.
Highlights
Getting there: BC Transit buses run from Vancouver or drive Highway 99. About 1 hour.
💡 The Chief hike is genuinely steep — wear proper shoes and bring water. Worth every step for the view.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The closest dramatic experience to the city
A 140-metre suspension bridge across a 70-metre deep canyon in the rainforest. The Treetops Adventure (suspended walkways in the forest canopy) and Cliffwalk (cantilevered walkways along the canyon walls) make this a full half-day experience.
Highlights
Getting there: Free shuttle from downtown Vancouver hotels. Or take SkyTrain to Lonsdale Quay and connect.
💡 Go on a weekday morning — it gets very busy by midday. The free shuttle makes it easy.
Stanley Park
Vancouver's urban masterpiece — not to be missed
1,001 acres of old-growth rainforest surrounded by the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Vancouver. The seawall around Stanley Park is one of the world's best urban walks or bike rides. Free to enter, spectacular at any time of day.
Highlights
Getting there: Walk from downtown (20 min) or take a bus. Mobi bikes are perfect for the seawall loop.
💡 Rent a Mobi bike and do the seawall loop — takes about 1.5 hours and is the perfect way to see the park.
Granville Island
The best food market in Western Canada
An urban island under the Granville Bridge, home to the Public Market — Vancouver's most famous food hall. Artisan food vendors, fresh seafood, local produce, and food from around the world. Also has studios, galleries, theatres, and a great brewery.
Highlights
Getting there: Aquabus mini-ferry from downtown False Creek. About $5 CAD each way — a fun part of the experience itself.
💡 Go before noon — the market is quietest in the morning and the fish is freshest.