A city of gleaming skyscrapers surrounded by ocean and snow-capped mountains, Vancouver offers world-class art galleries and museums, stunning green spaces, and an exciting food scene. A short journey away, Vancouver Island has scenic towns along a rugged coastline. With Eyewitness Top 10 Vancouver and Vancouver Island, it’s yours to explore.
The Waterfront and Downtown districts are likely to be your first introduction to the city of Vancouver; some outstanding attractions are nestled near glitzy Canada Place, including Vancouver Lookout, Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver Art Gallery, and Science World. A 14-mile (22-km) waterfront greenway meanders around the edges of Stanley Park, a rare urban wilderness with incredible vistas. Hop over by ferry to the south shore, where the sprawling Vanier Park is home to the H. R. MacMillan Space Centre and a few museums, or explore Granville Island, and its vibrant Public Market.
Beyond the city, Greater Vancouver boasts Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and also a mind-blowing array of outdoor pursuits in Whistler. With its wild coastline, Vancouver Island is also a popular outdoor destination. Its laid-back provincial capital Victoria is home to the Royal British Columbia Museum and historic Inner Harbour.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a week, our Top 10 guide brings together the best of everything the region has to offer, from the trendiest restaurants and bars to a year-round roster of festivals and events. The guide has useful tips throughout, from seeking out what’s free to avoiding the crowds, plus seven easy-to-follow itineraries designed to tie together a clutch of sights in a short space of time. Add inspiring photography and detailed maps, and you’ve got the essential pocket-sized travel companion. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Vancouver and Vancouver Island.