Explore Vancouver & Victoria: Cuisine, Culture & Natural Landscapes - 6 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Vancouver, Granville Island Food Tour

Welcome to the vibrant city of Vancouver, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and towering Coastal Mountains. Upon arrival at the airport, you can make your own way to your downtown hotel or schedule a private transfer. After checking in and freshening up, venture out on a guided food tour of Granville Island. Wander through the Granville Island Public Market to try a variety of snacks from independent farmers and food artisans, including locally-made charcuterie, candied salmon, and melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts. 

Day 2: Bike Tour in Stanley Park, Explore Chinatown & the Shipyards Night Market

Get ready for an active adventure this morning as you join your guide for a bicycle tour across Stanley Park. With miles of paved and gravel pathways winding through lush forests, along sea walls, and past stunning vistas, cyclists of all levels can enjoy the natural beauty of this urban oasis. Pass iconic sights, like towering totem poles, Beaver Lake, and Prospect Point, while breathing in the fresh ocean air. After pedaling through the park for three hours, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You could make your way to Chinatown, one of the largest ones in North America.

Explore the markets filled with exotic produce, spices, and traditional Chinese goods, or peruse the shops offering everything from herbal remedies to handcrafted souvenirs. If you're visiting on a Friday between May to September, spend the evening at the Shipyards Night Market, held against the backdrop of the picturesque waterfront. Sample savory street food, gourmet treats, and refreshing beverages, then take in the bustling atmosphere, enhanced by live music, cultural performances, and interactive activities. 

Day 3: Ferry to Victoria, Discover British Columbia's Capital at Your Own Pace

Say goodbye to Vancouver for now as you make your way to the port to board a 2.5-hour ferry to Victoria, British Columbia's capital. When you arrive, check into your hotel and freshen up, then venture out to explore the city at your own pace. A good place to start is the Royal BC Museum to learn about the province's rich history, culture, and natural wonders. Wander through the museum to see towering totem poles, First Nations artifacts, meticulously recreated historical scenes, and interactive galleries.

Then, head to Butchart Gardens, just 30 minutes outside the city. Stroll along the meticulously landscaped grounds, showcasing an array of floral displays, themed gardens, and tranquil water features. Back in the city, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride through the downtown core. Pass landmarks like the Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings, and Fairmont Empress while you learn anecdotes about each sight. In the evening, return to the harbor for dinner at one of the restaurants or bistros overlooking the water. 

Day 4: Whale Watching in Victoria, Explore Salt Spring Island

Victoria is one of the best places to see whales in Canada, as some species, like orca whales, reside here year-round. So, today, you set off on a boat cruise to try to spot these magnificent creatures. If you're visiting during peak season, from May to October, you also have a chance to spot humpback whales, gray whales, and minke whales. Keep your cameras ready in case a whale breaches in front of you. After three hours on the water, return to shore and continue exploring the area on your own.

Day 5: Seaplane to Vancouver, Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park or Science World

Skip the ferry and return to Vancouver in style on a 40-minute seaplane that lands directly in the center of the city, giving you plenty of free time to discover more of the area on your own. Wander along the Vancouver Seawall for panoramic views of the ocean, mountains, and skyline, or make your way to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, just 15 minutes outside of the city within the temperate rainforest. The highlight of the park is the 450-foot-long (137 m) suspension bridge swaying above the Capilano River. Once across the bridge, the park's Treetops Adventure awaits.

Cross a network of smaller bridges suspended above the forest floor, then make your way to the Cliffwalk, a series of cantilevered walkways clinging to the granite cliffside. Before you leave, learn about the area's Indigenous culture and history at the Story Centre. If you prefer to stay indoors today, Science World is a great option. Housed in an iconic dome, the museum has an array of exhibits, hands-on displays, and immersive IMAX films that teach you about the natural world and outer space. In the evening, head to Robson Street, a bustling shopping and dining district, to grab dinner.