canada

If you’re like me (in which case, God help you) you’ll do anything to leave home for the weekend and see a new place.

(As in, take a 2:45 AM flight back from Puerto Rico and roll up to work with sea salt still in your hair kind of anything)

So naturally, when I lived in New York, I was obsessed with ways to get away for a quick weekend trip, and guys? If you have 3 days, Montreal is one of the best possible cities you can visit, especially if you’re on a budget.

In fact, I loved my first Montreal weekend trip so much that I actually went back for another trip in the spring and saw even more.

Now I feel doubly prepared to give you the best possible advice for seeing the highlights on Montreal in 3 days.

I’ll warn you now that I’m not really a “tick-all-the-boxes” traveler — I’m more interested in experiencing the culture of a city through its restaurants, coffee shops, bars, parks, and maybe a few museums rather than working my way down through the top 10 things to do in Montreal.

This is a leisurely guide to my favorite sights in one of my favorite cities, with a focus on sticking to a budget.

3 Days in Montreal Itinerary: Making the Most of a Quick Montreal Weekend Trip

Day 1: Vieux-Montreal, Downtown Montreal, and Chinatown

Walk around Vieux-Montreal.

You’ll want to dedicate a good portion of your first day in Montreal to explore Vieux-Montreal, the oldest and most photogenic neighborhood in Montreal and one of the top touristic spots in Canada.

This stunning architecture is on steroids: you’ll feel transported out of North America and straight into Europe.

There are a few landmark buildings you can’t miss, so take yourself on a walking tour of Old Montreal (either self-guided or take an affordable guided walking tour).

One of the sights you can’t miss is Montreal’s stunning Town Hall, pictured below.

You’ll also want to walk down the charming street of St. Paul Street, with its cobblestoned streets and charming façades.

Check out Bonsecours Market.

While walking down St. Paul Street, you won’t be able to miss the stunning Bonsecours Market, which has been around since 1847 and looks straight out of Vienna or Paris.

While the market is a beautiful building, there isn’t too much going on inside — just a few overpriced boutiques aimed at fat-walleted tourists, namely: probably not us.

Don’t fret, though — Montreal is home to plenty of other markets with far more energy and life (and better on the wallet) that I’ll show you later on in this Montreal itinerary.

Stop at Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel.

Just north of Bonsecours Market, you can’t miss Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel.

No, this isn’t the famous Notre-Dame — we’re getting to that — but it is the oldest chapel in all of Montreal, founded back in 1678 but restored in 1771 after a fire nearly burned it to the foundation.

Despite not having the same “pull” as the larger, more famous Notre-Dame, it’s absolutely worth a stop.

Plus, entry to the chapel is free (though donations, of course, are appreciated).

If you want to check out the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum co-located with the chapel, however, you will have to pay an entry fee.

Visit the Pointe-à-Callière Museum.

Before you leave Vieux-Montreal, there’s one more point I think you can’t miss: the Pointe-à-Callière archaeological site/museum.

Vieux-Montreal was officially “founded” by French settlers in 1642. Obviously, though, Montreal’s history goes way, way beyond that, and Canada was inhabited far longer than there’s been a European presence on the continent.

I think it’s important to honor the history of our continent’s first inhabitants, and so while I’m not much of a museum girl, I loved the Pointe-à-Callière. 

This museum tells and preserves the history of Montreal’s indigenous peoples to its European settlers to present-day stories and facts about Montreal.

It incorporates centuries-old archaeological ruins with found artifacts that shed light on indigenous/First Nations life before European settlement, to tell a more well-rounded story of Montreal’s “founding.”

Tickets are a bit pricey, but in my opinion, it’s worth it to preserve this important history.

At the time of update (July 2022), young adult tickets (ages 18-30) cost $17 CAD and adult tickets (31+) cost $25 CAD.

Stop at the Place d’Armes.

Just outside of Vieux-Montreal in Downtown Montreal, you’ll want to visit the Place d’Armes.

This famous square is home to beautiful Montreal bank building on one side, and Montreal’s real claim to fame — the Notre-Dame Basilica — on the other.

Check out the interior of the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Yes, visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica is a little touristy, and it comes with a modest entry fee to offset the cost of keeping up the church ($6 CAD, cash only).

I mean, just look at that altarpiece.  I’m not even religious, but I was gobsmacked.

Head to Chinatown for a delicious meal.

After visiting Vieux-Montreal thoroughly, you’re probably quite hungry.

You’re in luck — Montreal’s small but robust Chinatown is located right by the Basilica.

And if you’re visiting Montreal on a budget, this is where you’ll find some of the best cheap eats in Montreal.

My favorites?

Pho Bac 97: Great pho and bun noodle bowls. Expect to pay about $10 CAD for an entree (which is $7.50 USD). Pho Bang New York is also pretty good; expect similar prices. Montreal native and Vietnamese food expert Jodi of Legal Nomads recommends Ca Phe Con Leche and Pho Tay Ho. You’d be a fool not to take her up on her suggestions. I, unfortunately, discovered them too late.

Qing Hua: If you want to feel like you never need to eat again and spend less than $8 CAD ($6 USD) doing so, make sure you check out Qing Hua. Their pork dumplings with mushrooms are LIFE. If you don’t eat meat, there are also a ton of vegetarian options.

There are also several other worthy places to eat in Montreal, so check out this Montreal restaurant guide if you’re a foodie!

Walk off your indulges.

Once you’ve finished wandering around Chinatown, check out bustling Rue Ste. Catherine where you can shop ’til you drop.

Alternately, you can walk along the Port of Montreal, especially beautiful in the autumn when the trees turn red.

Day 2: Culture, Poutine, and the Latin Quarter

Start your day at one of Montreal’s best museums.

If you prefer modern art, I can highly recommend the MAC / Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (Contemporary Art Museum of Montreal), which has an excellent rotation of exhibits and installations that are always highly creative and often interactive.

I’m not a huge contemporary art fan in general, but this is one of the best contemporary art museums I’ve ever been to. It costs $10 CAD for adults.

Alternately, you can easily visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts (closed on Mondays). I highly recommend it if you’re a fan of Impressionist paintings, but the cost is a bit expensive if you’re visiting Montreal on a budget, so keep that in mind.

You could go to the Biodome, but I personally don’t condone it. I didn’t feel like the penguin enclosure is ethical in any way, shape, or form.

The penguins had very little room to play and spread out and realizing that I had paid to contribute to that made me feel a bit sick with myself as someone who doesn’t support most zoos.

Grab some traditional poutine.

After you’ve gotten your culture fix, then duh — it’s time to eat again!

If you thought I’d let you leave Montreal without eating poutine, you clearly don’t know what kind of person I am.

You simply can’t miss poutine, Canada’s national dish: French fries covered in gravy and cheese curds, which is approximately 10 times more delicious than it sounds.

The standard recommendation is La Banquise and with only 3 days in Montreal, I wasn’t going to mess around with subpar poutine.

There are a ton of variations on the classic — and while poutine purists may kill me for saying it, a fried egg on top of anything is never a bad idea.

If you don’t want to venture as far as La Banquise, you could just go to Frite Alors! in the Latin Quarter. It also has delicious poutine and it’s a little more centrally located.

But La Banquise is a classic for a reason, in my opinion, so I think it’s worth it to go.

Plus, after eating at La Banquise you’re basically already in one of Montreal’s lovely green spaces, Parc la Fontaine, where you can rent boats on a small lake or just sit and people watch.

I also really loved cycling around the neighborhood here, with its cute alleyways and houses.

I used the network of Bixi bikes during my stay in Montreal, which is extremely convenient and affordable, and definitely my favorite way of getting around the city (weather permitting).

Visit Marché de Jean-Talon.

Next, head over to the Marché de Jean-Talon, which is just by Little Italy (also worth walking around if you have the time!).

This place makes basic produce look amazing and is so fun and delightfully French-feeling to walk through.

The best reason to visit? The impeccable array of cheeses.

Much to the delight of my fellow bus riders, I brought some Quebecoise bleu cheese home with me to enjoy for lunch at work the next day.

Suck it, customs, I will not declare my deliciously unpasteurized cheese. Can I live?

Grab a delicious dinner in the Latin Quarter.

In the evening, check out the bars and restaurants of the Latin Quarter.

The Latin Quarter is the heart of student life, so there’s plenty of budget friendly food options (the banh mi at Vua is quite good!) and places for a nice drink in the evening.

There’s also often live music in the squares, so keep an eye out for that!

If you’re vegan, check this guide to how to eat vegan in Montreal.

Day 3: Explore the area around Park Mont-Royal and Le Plateau

Start your day at the beautiful St. Joseph’s Oratory.

This beautiful building is located near the south end of the Park du Mont-Royal, located a short walk from the Côte-des-Neiges metro.

If you want, you’re close to Montreal’s largest cemetery, which you can visit if you’re a fan of cemeteries.

I’m a weirdo and enjoy visiting cemeteries when I travel (I find them quite peaceful and a lovely place to walk).

Wander through the Cimetière Notre-Dame-des-Neiges.

The Cimetière Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is actually the largest in all of Canada and the third largest in all of North America.

Obviously, it goes without saying that if you visit, do so respectfully (don’t photograph people, no loud conversations, and generally respect the somber tone — over 1 million people are buried here).

Wander the Parc du Mont-Royal and hike to its peak.

After you’ve seen the Oratory and/or the cemetery, it’s time to explore the largest park in Montreal – Parc du Mont-Royal.

Hike to hike off yesterday’s poutine! Mont-Royal is the highest point in Montreal and is the city’s namesake.

But don’t worry just yet. At only 764 feet, this “mount” isn’t much of a feat — it takes about 30-45 minutes to climb up the stairs to the top viewpoint.

The best vista is called the Kondiaronk Belvedere, located by the chalet.

I’ve been up Mont-Royal twice: both in the fall and the spring. It’s a tradition for me every time I visit the city.

Both are lovely, but the area around the chalet is especially charming in the spring, when the tulips are in full bloom.

But the views are spectacular any time of year!

Wander around the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood.

After exploring the Park du Mont-Royal, you can walk, bike, or take the metro to Plateau Mont-Royal.

This area is home to some amazing street art as well as some of the best bars and eateries in Montreal. 

Grab a meal at Schwartz’s Deli.

One of the number one things you can’t miss in Montreal – even if you just have a few days – is eating a smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli. Absolutely delicious, and very affordable!

Feel free to leave a napkin — everyone else does — after you stop here for lunch.

Look for Montreal’s best street art.

Just a little further from Plateau, there’s a smaller sub-neighborhood called Mile End, which is the hipster hub of Montreal. This is one of the best spots for finding street art in all of Montreal.

I can’t really recommend specific murals as I last visited Montreal in spring of 2016, and street art is subject to so much change. Instead, I’ll direct you to this recently updated article about the best street art in Montreal.

Walk up an appetite — there’s more food on the way — with a walk through Mile End. If you want something more structured, consider doing a bike tour through these hidden gem neighborhoods – there are daily tours at 10 AM and 2 PM, seasonally.

Grab a bagel at Saint-Viateur.

What I do know, though, is that this is where you can find the most famous bagel in Montreal at Saint-Viateur.

Sweet and denser than New York bagels, they’re equally delicious — just totally different. Just be sure you get it with cream cheese — this ex-New Yorker insists on it.

Wander through more of Plateau Mont-Royal and have dinner there.

Head back to the more central part of Plateau Mont-Royal before dark so you can see the best of the architecture, as this is one of the most photogenic residential neighborhoods in all of Montreal.

I mean, where else besides Montreal can you find gems like this just waiting to be photographed?

 

A post shared by Tourisme Montréal (@montreal) on Nov 11, 2017 at 5:47am PST

Once the sun has gone down and you’ve worked up an appetite again (yes, I’m aware this guide is basically all about food), here are a few great spots to eat and drink in Plateau Mont-Royal:

• Byblos for delicious Middle Eastern food
• Atma for great Indian
• Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth has great surroundings and delicious cocktails
• Rouge Gorge for wine lovers

Where to Stay in Montreal

The biggest chunk of your Montreal budget will likely be spent on accommodations. I’ve stayed in both budget hostels and budget hotels in the city and found that both offered excellent value.

Here, I’ll let you know what I think the best options are for each budget. I roughly define the budget categories as follows: budget is under $25 per night, mid-range is $50-150 per night, and luxury is $150+ per night

Budget: I stayed at the Auberge Saint Paul when I first went to Montreal. Pluses include: super clean, great facilities, right in the middle of adorable Vieux-Montreal, and walking distance to cool neighborhoods like the Plateau. It was a bit noisy at night, but many hostels are, unfortunately.

Check rates, reviews, and availability here.

But the hostel scene has improved greatly in the years since I’ve visited Montreal, and if I were to go back as a solo traveler, hands down I would pick the M Montreal Hostel, located between the Latin Quarter and Vieux-Montreal.

It’s insanely decked out, with great shared amenities like a pool table, a cozy in-house bar with log-cabin-like aesthetics, and a literal ROOF DECK WITH A JACUZZI. The dorms are no less well-appointed, with shelves, privacy curtains, and personal outlets — basically, the dream hostel trifecta.

Check rates, reviews, and availability here as it sells out often.

Mid-Range: There are plenty of affordable middle-of-the-road options in Montreal, but they usually aren’t that jazzy or exciting. The Hotel de Paris Montreal is an exception, in the trendy Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood in a traditional old building.

The rooms are very spacious and comfortable, letting in lots of light and white airy details. The rooms are modern and clean (which is not that common in the mid-range price area – the hotel I stayed in before, Hotel Quartier Latin, smelled like smoke and was above a loud strip club).

Check rates, reviews, and availability here.

Luxury: Now, if you have money to spend, Montreal will definitely meet you halfway.

There are plenty of traditionally luxurious 5-star hotels like the Ritz, Sofitel, etc. but if you want something with a bit more character, try Hotel Le St. James Montreal to feel like true royalty.

Check rates, photos, reviews, and availability here.

Tips for this 3 Days in Montreal itineray on a Budget

1. If possible, opt for an overnight bus over the plane or train

This is assuming you’re coming from somewhere on the East Coast of the U.S. (or nearby in Canada).

Planes are quick but pricy; trains are slow, run during the day, and are also pricy. So what are you to do? Try an overnight bus!

I’ll be the first to admit it – Greyhound is awful. It’s often late, the drivers leave just about everything to be desired, and they once somehow managed to lose my suitcase from underneath the bus (and took over a month to find it).

But if you’re obsessed with travel like I am, you’ll make it work. If you’re coming from New York, you can leave Friday evening around midnight to arrive in time for a full Saturday.

You can leave late Monday at night, just in time to get home for a quick refreshing shower before heading off to work with envy-inducing stories from your 3 day weekend trip to Montreal.

Sounds terrible? Well, yes, it is – but isn’t breaking the monotony and crossing a new city off your bucket list worth the neck cramp from trying not to snooze on your neighbor’s shoulder? Bonus – it also saves you on two nights’ worth of accommodation costs.

One caveat: because America is seriously lacking when it comes to buses, you don’t just get to sleep the entire time you’re on the bus. Usually, they force you to get off for about 15 or 20 minutes in Albany, at around 3 AM, for a dubious “cleaning stop”. You’ll also have to get off the bus to go through passport control, but that’s pretty standard, and the border is only an hour from Montreal, so this stop is less maddening.

2. Stay in a hostel or budget hotel

There are plenty of cheap places to stay in Montreal. I’ve included my recommendations above in the section on where to stay in Montreal. If you’re truly keeping it to a budget, you’ll want to pick a hostel.

However, keep in mind these will probably be loud and likely full of under-21 Americans celebrating their ability to drink legally for a change. Just bring good earplugs – I love my Hearos – and carry a jumbo bag full of them with me everywhere.

3. Use Bixi bike or the metro to get around

Bixi is one of the original bike share programs, and it’s hard for me to think of a city that’s done it better. For $14 CAD, you can take unlimited rides within a 72-hour period, or for $5 CAD within a 24-hour period.

The metro is also $3 CAD per ride if you buy two tickets at a time. It goes up to $3.25 CAD if you buy tickets individually, about on par with most city subways.

But unlike most city subways, Montreal’s subway is like, really classy, and with 95% fewer rodents, garbage, and general f*ckery.

Why you so fancy, Montreal? You’re making the rest of us look bad.

Keep in mind that Montreal is also super walkable, so you may not even need that Bixi or subway pass if you love walking your way through cities.

I can’t testify to taxi prices as I never took a taxi during my time in Montreal.

4. There are plenty of ways to eat cheaply in Montreal

Holy crap, Montreal knows how to eat. I’ve recommended a lot of budget friendly places above, but in case that isn’t enough, this definitive list of the best cheap eats in Montreal can’t lead you astray.

The markets are also a great place to buy things like fresh bread, charcuterie, and cheese if you want to make a picnic to take to one of Montreal’s many parks.

And always take advantage of a free breakfast if it’s an option!

My Montreal Budget Breakdown

So, how much will this all set you back?  Here’s a low-end estimate for your typical traveler on a budget.

If you eat at pricier places or stay in a fancier hotel, your cost will naturally go up.

Here is a sample cost of a super-budget itinerary for 3 days in Montreal, as a getaway from NYC, priced in USD:

Hostel at Auberge Saint-Paul: $18/night * 2 nights (since you come in on an overnight bus) = $36

Transport to and from Montreal: $100 and up on a Greyhound bus

Food: $15/day * 3 days = $45 (free breakfast, food from markets and various cheap eats around the city)

Transit Within City: $11 for a 3-day Bixi pass

Admission Costs: up to you, there’s a ton of free things to do in Montreal, but I did personally opt for some museums. I’ve excluded them from my base calculation since I’m not sure what you’d choose, but add roughly $10-15 USD per museum you want to see.

Total: $192 USD and up, including transportation to and from NYC. A small price to pay to get away from Garbage Island (as I pseudo-affectionately call New York City) for a glorious weekend in North America’s version of Paris.

Want more Quebec? Check out the even budget-friendlier Quebec City!

Tell me: have you visited Montreal before? Are you obsessed with it as I am? 

The fresh air, lush greenery, and snow-capped mountains are just a few of the many remarkable traits about Vancouver you’ll notice upon your arrival.

Located in Western Canada, Vancouver is a seaport situated on the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. Because much of its land meets water, this coastal city merges aesthetic pleasure with recreation, the key formula for first-class experiences.

The year-round mild climate, sustainable infrastructures, and diverse culture support Vancouver’s consistently high rankings as one of the most livable cities and one of the best cities in the world. 

Having lived in Vancouver for nearly nine years, I’m lucky to have been able to call this city my home and I’m thrilled to take you on a scenic, multicultural adventure through Vancouver.

This 2 day Vancouver itinerary will guide you through the history and culture of what makes Vancouver the city it is today.

Your trip will focus on exploring downtown but you will also venture to other main attraction points throughout the city, including its surrounding suburbs.

There will be no shortage of views on this trip—you’ll be feasting your eyes on beautiful scenery and mouthwatering food. Welcome to an authentic journey through Vancouver!

Weekend in Vancouver Itineray

Day 1: Dive into Vancouver’s trendy food scene, learn about the local culture, and marvel at the city’s views

Note: You can get around on your first day by foot and by using Vancouver’s transportation system. More information about using transit in Vancouver can be found at the end of this itinerary.

Wake up to coffee, donuts, and art

Begin at the intersection of E King Edward Ave and Main St. and take your time as you walk down South Main into the Mount Pleasant neighborhood.

Main St. has everything. Boutiques house many of its local artists and designers’ crafts, accessories, and clothing. Cozy coffee shops, pubs and breweries, and large chain to small independent grocery stores can also be found here.

If you’re like me and you experience extreme indecision when it comes to deciding what to eat, Mount Pleasant is the place to be when you need a variety of dining options to choose from.

Every summer, Vancouver celebrates the local culture and history at its mural festival, allowing artists to create large-scale public murals throughout the city.

More than 250 murals exist throughout various neighborhoods of Vancouver, and Mount Pleasant exhibits nearly 100 murals alone.

Download the printable map available on their website here, and check out the variety of impressive murals during your walk, plus downtown skyline views.

Make sure to stop by 49th Parallel Café & Lucky’s Doughnuts at the corner of E 13th Ave and Main St. As they’re made from scratch daily, their donuts have become one of the locals’ favorites and are a must-have during your visit.

The Peanut Butter and Jelly and their Old Fashioned are my favorite, and of course, accompanied by their freshly brewed coffee—it’s the best combination. 

Just make sure to leave some extra room in your stomach so you can try the other locals’ favorite, Cartems Donuts, located further down Main St. at E 6th Ave.

They carry a range of classic and unique flavors, and they offer both yeast and cake donuts as well as vegan and gluten-free options. They’re a little more on the pricy side (about $1.50 to $4 CAD per donut), but it’s worth trying at least one!

Tour Vancouver’s Chinatown 

One of the reasons why I love Vancouver is because of how easy it is to navigate around the city. You can easily travel between most neighborhoods whether by foot, public transit, or car.

Hop on the #3 or #19 bus toward downtown, or, if you prefer traveling by foot, continue walking into Chinatown. The difference is a 15-20-minute bus ride or a 25-30-minute walk. 

As you enter Chinatown, you’ll immediately notice the difference in architecture with its fusion of eastern and western style buildings, many constructed by brick. The streetlamps are painted red while its distinctive black street signs include both the English and Chinese names.

Chinese immigrants have played a fundamental role in defining the culture and heritage of this community, and besides English, Cantonese is the common language spoken by locals here.

If you’re interested in learning about Chinese history and culture, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the place to visit.

It became the first full-scale Chinese classical garden outside of Asia after its construction in 1986. An abundance of history and symbolism is embedded in the architecture of the garden’s courtyard and bridges, as well as the other features of the garden such as its rock formations, pond, and plants. Admission prices, tickets, and visitor information can be found here. 

Next door is the Sam Kee Building, which has been recorded by the Guinness Book of Records as the most narrow commercial building in the world with the ground-floor depth measuring only 4 feet 11 inches. There is a $15 entry fee, but you can still admire this unique building from the outside and save your money. 

At this point, you’ll be face-to-face with the grand Chinatown Millennium Gate, which signifies the entrance to Vancouver’s Chinatown. This gate represents the entrances similar to those found in southern Chinese villages, with three ornate arches adjacent to each other and the center arch being the largest.

Inscribed at the center of the arch are the Chinese characters that read, “remember the past and look forward to the future.”

This gate is just one of many interesting sights to see in Chinatown, so if you’re interested in checking out more of Chinatown’s architecture and historical landmarks, follow this map that guides you around all attraction points in roughly one mile. 

Grab a snack at New Town Bakery

By now you’ll likely be hungry for lunch, and you’re in luck. You’re only a half block away from New Town Bakery & Restaurant where you’ll catch a whiff of the freshly baked savory and sweet steamed pastries wafting out their door.

Besides the pastries, this family-run restaurant also serves Hong Kong-style food. However, I suggest skipping the restaurant food and indulging in the assortment of baked goods instead, because there are much higher quality Chinese food restaurants that I will suggest later in this Vancouver itinerary. 

Although they’re often busy, the service is fast. Grab a ticket number from the dispenser at the front to get a spot in line to order and make sure you have cash or debit on hand to pay.

I highly recommend their coconut buns, pineapple buns, steamed buns, BBQ pork buns, and egg tarts—basically, anything your heart desires at this point because once you see, smell, and taste how delicious one baked good is, you’ll want to indulge in all the rest. 

Grab lunch at one of the best Chinatown restaurants

Still hungry? Or want to try something else? Here are my top favorite dining spots in Vancouver’s Chinatown:

• Phnom Penh: The line to eat at this Vietnamese-Cambodian restaurant is always long, but the food is worth the wait. It’s rated highly among locals and tourists and has won awards year after year. You have to order their most famous and addictive Marinated Butter Beef and the Phnom Penh Deep-Fried Chicken Wings.
• The Ramen Butcher: I used to eat out at ramen places a lot in Vancouver for the reason that it has never once disappointed my taste buds. The Ramen Butcher is just one among the many on my list of favorite ramen shops. Their broths are packed with flavor, and it’s the perfect meal to eat when you’re craving something warm and comforting (especially on a rainy or overcast day in Vancouver).
• Virtuous Pie: I’m neither vegan nor vegetarian, but I’ve found myself coming back to this plant-based pizza restaurant more than once. They serve individual-sized (10-inch) thin-crust pizzas, which are all made from scratch, in-house. The Superfunghi and Pesto CBR are my favorite.
• Umaluma Dairy-Free Gelato: It’s hard to believe their ice cream is dairy-free because of how creamy and smooth the texture is. They have a large menu of unique flavors, and I guarantee you’ll wish you had a bottomless stomach so you could try every single ice cream flavor—it’s that good!

See the Gastown Steam Clock

Walk about 10 minutes to the corner of Cambie and Water Street, and you’ll see Gastown’s famous antique steam-powered clock.

It’s one of the few working steam clocks left in the world, and every 15 minutes, the clock whistles to tell the time.

The Steam Clock was built in 1977 over a steam grate located above the city’s underground heating system of steam pipes, which was purposed as both a monument and for keeping homeless people from sleeping on the street where heat emits through the grate. 

After checking out the steam clock, wander around Gastown to appreciate the charm of its cobbled streets and historic architecture.

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood and walking through this district feels like you’re walking backwards through time. Casual pubs, upscale wine bars, farm-to-table restaurants, souvenir shops, and trendy boutiques also line the streets, so there’s a lot to see and do here. 

Note: The Downtown Eastside of Vancouver (on E Hastings St., and especially the blocks closest to Main St.) hosts a number of complex social issues, including a large homeless and drug-using population. If you’re not a city dweller or seasoned traveler to have ever encountered communities with concentrated poverty, this note is more of a heads up of the sights you may see than it is a warning about your safety.

Regardless of where you are, it’s always important to be street smart and remain aware of your surroundings when traveling. Generally, people will leave you alone if you don’t bother them, but if anything, I recommend staying on the cautious side and avoid walking through this area.

Soak in the sweeping downtown skyline views from the waterfront

Just a few minutes away, and you’ll be at Vancouver’s Waterfront.

This part of Vancouver is absolutely breathtaking, and no matter how many times I came here, I never became sick of the views.

Located inside Harbour Centre is the Vancouver Lookout, which will present you with 360-degree aerial views of the stunning downtown skyline.

Nothing beats a birds-eye view of the windows of the city’s skyscrapers glinting beneath the sunlight or the illuminating city lights reflecting against the harbor at night—the sights are magical! At this time, the Lookout is currently closed to walk-in visitors, but you can book reservations here.

Since you’re already at Harbour Centre, it’s worth it to check out the rest of this unique complex as itis a favored spot among locals and tourists. This multifunctional building serves students, shoppers, customers, and working professionals, as it is home to a university campus, a mall, a food court, and businesses. 

Another notable feature of Harbour Centre is the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant.

Yes, you read that correctly, it’s a revolving restaurant. At 553 feet high, you can simultaneously enjoy fine dining and panoramic city views. Every hour, the restaurant completes one revolution, so you don’t ever have to get up from your seat to see the city from different vantage points.

The main courses from the dinner menu range from $36-$95 CAD, so if you aren’t looking to splurge, just skip this.

Check out the beautiful Waterfront Station

Across the street from Harbour Centre is Waterfront Station. Although it’s a public transportation facility, it stands out from all other stations in Vancouver.

You’ll immediately notice from its exterior its grandeur design. It boasts classical-style white columns along the exterior and interior. It’s also the terminus station for Vancouver’s trains, SeaBus, and helicopters.

It’s pretty impressive for a transit station, so take a minute to drop by and take a look inside. 

Wander past Canada Place

Continue walking along the perimeter of Waterfront to see the colossal size of Canada Place.

Canada Place houses the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver’s World Trade Centre, and FlyOver Canada.

Large public and private events are often held inside, including celebrations during holidays like Canada Day and Christmas. Luxury cruise ships also dock here from time to time.

Check out FlyOver Canada

Did you know you can fly across Canada in eight minutes?

Well, of course not literally, but FlyOver Canada offers a simulated adventure that takes you on an east-to-west journey through Canada.

On this short amusement ride, you will be immersed in a large display of the extraordinary Canadian landscapes. Through its impressive special effects, you will feel as though you are actually flying.

The entire experience lasts about 30 minutes (you will watch a pre-show before your actual flight “takes off”). Tickets for this attraction can be found here. 

Stroll the Canadian Trail

Finish up your Waterfront tour by exiting Canada Place and walking around its outside perimeter that borders the harbor.

The path of this promenade is called the Canadian Trail, and throughout your walk, you will see that the ground is marked with the names of Canada’s 10 provinces and three territories (time to brush up on your Canadian geography!).

This is also a great spot for taking pictures of the waterfront views!

Explore Downtown Vancouver

Head up Granville Street, and you’ll be submerged in the bustle of downtown with its premier retail stores and endless dining options.

Pacific Centre is one of the busiest malls in Canada and it contains a blend of high-end department stores to popular North American retailers. If shopping is not your thing while you’re traveling, feel free to skip this.

Otherwise, if you’re like me and you’re on a budget (and you aren’t an impulse buyer), you can also window shop. I find it really interesting to see the differences among retailers in different cities because it reflects in the fashion culture of locals. 

Grab a unique hot dog from JAPADOG

After checking out some stores, turn left from Granville St. onto Robson St. and walk three blocks over to JAPADOG.

It was once a food stand but has since evolved into a restaurant, which specializes in hot dogs that include elements from Japanese cuisine like okonomiyaki, teriyaki, and tonkatsu.

If you’ve only ever had an American-style hot dog, of course seeing yakisoba noodles or dried seaweed atop your hotdog will catch you off guard, but it’s an absolute must-have here as part of Vancouver’s food scene.

The hot dog combinations are genius and I guarantee that your first bite will be an explosion of flavor!

If you’re not feeling adventurous, you can opt for a plain sausage without toppings, but I strongly recommend trying their specialties.

While you’re here, please try the Age Ice, which is a deep-fried bun filled with ice cream and the Butter & Shoyu flavored fries. I’m salivating just thinking about it!

Wander the beautiful Central Public Library

Walk two more blocks toward Homer St. and you’ll arrive at Vancouver’s Central Public Library. You don’t have to be a bookworm to go here; it’s enough to just gander at the sight of the library’s palatial design.

You’ll notice the architecture resembles a roman amphitheater. It’s a beautifully built library that has a sustainable green roof and public rooftop garden.

Besides its expansive collection of books, there are nine floors that include exhibition spaces dedicated to art installations, a family theater, meeting rooms, a reading room, and an eating lounge. Feel free to roam the floors or just take a peek at its beauty from the outside.

Stroll around Robson Square

Head back onto Robson St. toward Howe St. and on your left will be Robson Square.

If you’re here in Vancouver in November through February, you can skate here at this outdoor ice-skating rink—a perfect winter activity.

You can also rent skates if you don’t have a pair of your own. The square is also a great open space to take a seat and rest or socialize with friends. 

Enjoy the art scene

If you’re into discovering Canada’s artwork, to your right is the Vancouver Art Gallery (the front entrance faces the next street over on W Georgia St.).

Featuring Canadian and international art, this gallery draws attention to the achievements of First Nation artists and art from the region of the Asia Pacific. It’ll take you around one hour to tour the entire gallery.

Ticket information can be found here.

Watch the sunset at English Bay Beach

Before you enter the beach (near the corner of Morton Ave and Denman St.), you’ll see some expressive human-like sculptures called the “A-maze-ing Laughter” that inspires cheery and playful interactions among visitors.

Once you enter the beach and are facing the water, on your left across the sand is a six-meter tall, human-made stone sculpture called “Inukshuk” that symbolizes the Inuit culture. To your right, you’ll likely see many bikers and pedestrians on a pathway, which is the English Bay Seawall that takes you into Stanley Park. 

After you’ve moseyed the beach, take a seat on one of the logs placed along the sand. As the sun begins its descent, you’ll be mesmerized by the sky’s gradual transformation from a brilliant crimson color into twilight. 

Have dinner and dessert in Vancouver’s West End

Further down Robson St. to Denman St. is Vancouver’s West End neighborhood.

You’ll find more clothing stores, souvenir and coffee shops, and a variety of restaurants. Nearly every type of cuisine exists here—there’s North American comfort food, classic Italian pastas, Japanese tapas, Korean street food, and the list goes on.

Because of the abundance of food, I can’t pick only one restaurant to recommend. So, here’s some of my top favorite restaurants in the West End:

• Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House (Their dishes are more expensive, but the food is high quality and delectable! Visit during their happy hour from 3-6pm and order their fresh shucked oysters and other happy hour menu items.) 
• Zefferelli’s or CinCin Ristorante + Bar (Both top notch Italian restaurants with handmade pastas that are located right next to each other.)
• Sura Korean Royal Cuisine (Their portions are large, filling, and they don’t compromise on quality and flavor!)
• Marutama Ra-Men or Kintaro Ramen (Located across from each other, both ramen shops have amazing ramen with rich, flavorful broths.)
• Dinesty Dumpling House (You can’t eat here unless you order their steamed pork soup dumplings! All of their other dumplings are some of the best I’ve had, and their other dishes are exceptional too. I’ve never been disappointed by their food.)
• Nook (Another incredible Italian restaurant with superior pasta and pizza.)
• Guu with Garlic (Known as the first Izakaya/Japanese tapas restaurant—perfect for trying a variety of reasonably-priced high-quality small dishes enjoyed with sake or Asian beer.)
• Espana (Spanish food packed with flavor in every bite. The Chorizo Scotch Eggs and the Daily Paella are a must-order here.)
• Cactus Club Cafe (Between casual and upscale Canadian fare, you can order anything from sushi, grain bowls, deluxe salads, burgers, pasta, and steak. This restaurant is located on Beach Avenue right on English Bay Beach—you really can’t say no to oceanfront views during your meal!)

Here’s some of my favorite dessert places in the West End:

• Bon Crepe (Try their Japanese-style crepes, matcha soft-serve, or parfaits.)
• Nero Waffles (Serves delicious Authentic Belgium waffles.)
• Breka Bakery & Café (Has an assortment of fresh pastries and baked treats, and it’s open 24/7!)
• True Confections (This place is my guilty pleasure, and I’d come here late at night whenever my sweet cravings started to kick in. It specializes in cakes, cheesecakes, and pies. The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is my guilty pleasure.)

See Granville St. come alive at night

By now, you might be tired from walking around downtown, so if you want to give your legs a break, hop on the #5 bus by Denman St. and Morton Ave., and it’ll take you down Davie St. eastbound to Granville St. 

Although you were on Granville St. earlier this afternoon, this is a very different side of Granville that you have yet to experience.

At night, Granville wakes up by lighting up its many massive neon-lit signs that show the names of the bars, clubs, and theaters along this street. Take in the view as you walk up Granville toward W. Georgia St. The energy here is refreshing, fun, and carefree, and it’s the perfect place for a street photo op.

Grab a beer and let the scenic night views inspire you

Take the Canada Line train from the Vancouver City Centre station on W. Georgia St. and ride two stops (about four minutes) to Olympic Village. 

A couple worthy spots for enjoying great beer in Olympic Village is Craft Beer Market (a large venue with over 100 beers to choose from) and Tap & Barrel (a small but cozy pub with patio views and a smaller but good selection of craft beers).

End your night in peace and comfort by gazing out across the waters of False Creek. To your right, the Science World dome will be glowing, and straight ahead, the roof of BC Place will be illuminating in vibrant hues. At the center of this cityscape, the still waters capture and reflect the dazzling city lights, producing a gentle luminescence.

Get inspired and luxuriate in this breathtaking scene for as long as you want—the rest of the night is yours.

A few notes:

• During the day, you can rent single and tandem kayaks from Creekside Kayaks located at the Olympic Village dock and paddle along False Creek.
• Science World is a science museum with interactive displays and exhibits catered to youth, so it’s great for family visits. Unless you’re traveling with children, I suggest skipping this.
• BC Place is Vancouver’s 50,000 seat stadium that hosts major events like soccer and football.

Day 2: Start your morning at one of the world’s most beautiful city parks, then journey into Vancouver’s outskirts

Note: Since you’ll be starting off your day today covering more distances and exploring more of Vancouver’s southern suburbs, I recommend using a car today to travel between destinations.

Go for a morning bike ride, walk, run, or drive through Stanley Park

Free to enter, Stanley Park is Vancouver’s largest park that is made up of the Vancouver Seawall (a 17-mile uninterrupted path bordering the water), beaches, wildlife, historical landmarks, restaurants and cafes, and the Vancouver Aquarium.

Whichever way you explore Stanley Park, you will be blown away by the sights and the endless amount of activities you can do here.

If you like to exercise first thing in the morning, you can complete the 10km-loop around Stanley Park. Otherwise, you can go on a leisurely drive around the park and stop at the marked lookout points to take some pictures.

You can also capture some photos of the iconic Lions Gate Bridge at the midpoint of the Stanley Park loop. You’ll actually walk beneath the bridge itself, which sets up some great photo opportunities of the bridge. The alternative is that you can park at the lot by the Prospect Point Lookout to check out the bridge from there.

A few notes:

• Unfortunately, the Vancouver Aquarium is temporarily closed to the public as they are remodeling and there is no reopening date set in place at this time. More information about this can be found here.
• If you want to bike around the park, I suggest either renting bikes at Coal Harbour at EzeeRiders Bike Rental Seawall, Seawall Adventure Centre, or any of the bike rental shops located on Denman St. near Alberni St. You can bike along the Seawall into the park. If you tire easily, I suggest renting an electric bike. It’s a great option for when you need a break from pedaling, and you can also travel a lot faster.  
• Directions and transit information can be found here. 
• Parking information can be found here.
• A map and guide of Stanley Park can be found here.

Visit Granville Island 

Granville Island and its Public Market are a must-visit on your two-day Vancouver itinerary!

The Granville Island Public Market is a renowned fresh and specialty food market. It also sells many unique crafts from local artisans.

Outside of the Public Market are seafood restaurants with waterfront views, gift shops, local clothing boutiques, performing art theaters, art galleries, and its very own brewery: the Granville Island Brewing Company.

After your adventure in Stanley Park, you’re likely starving. So take this opportunity to refuel with some coffee or tea (try JJ Bean Coffee Roasters) and try a variety of foods from the different vendors inside the Public Market.

For some of the best baked goods, try A Bread Affair, Lee’s Donuts, or Terra Breads. If you can manage to practice some self-control here, try not to overstuff yourself because I will be taking you to lunch next—and you will be satisfied!

Granville Island is small enough that you can walk around the entire perimeter of the island. A few places worth stopping at to check out is the Sea Village with its tiny boat homes and the Giants Murals—concrete plants with colorful giants painted on the entire exterior. 

Located at the back of the Public Market on the dock beneath the Granville Street Bridge is the Aquabus dock. You can take a short ferry ride around the creek on the Aquabus, and also get off at certain stops around downtown. This ferry ride is one of Vancouver’s quintessential experiences—you can’t skip this!

Tickets and route information can be found here.

Feast on dim sum for lunch

With about 27% of Vancouver’s population being of Chinese ethnicity—and this percentage is likely higher now as this data is taken from the last available census in 2016—Chinese, and specifically, Cantonese cuisine has long been an integral part of Vancouver’s food culture.

If you’ve never had dim sum before, you’re about to experience something very special. If you’re like me and enjoy eating a variety of foods in one meal, dim sum is the perfect choice!

Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you for introducing them to so many different flavors and textures.

Traditional dim sum is served family-style, with tea, and includes a large range of small savory and sweet dishes such as shrimp dumplings, rice noodle rolls stuffed with pork, and steamed buns filled with sweet custard. 

Because the dish sizes are traditionally small, you might think that it’s not enough food. This is au contraire at Sun Sui Wah Seafood Restaurant as they serve larger than usual pieces of dim sum items.  They don’t skimp out on the fillings, which is an essential component to dim sum. 

Spend the afternoon at the park

You might be wondering, why would I go to the park while traveling?

It sounds mundane, but the parks in Vancouver are unlike any other city parks I’ve seen in my lifetime. There are more than 230 parks in Vancouver, and my favorite is the stunning Queen Elizabeth Park.

Just a few minutes away, and you’ll see that this park is more than just a stretch of lawn.

Inside the park is the Queen Elizabeth Quarry Gardens, an enormous and colorful garden with a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees—all perfectly arranged. There’s really nothing like being in a majestic setting such as this. 

The park is free to enter (besides a parking fee if you choose to park at the lot located at the top of the park), and contains art sculptures, a dancing fountain, outdoor sports courts, an upscale skyline-view restaurant, and a conservatory filled with exotic plants, flowers, and birds. 

Queen Elizabeth Park is also the highest point in Vancouver, which is just another reason why this park is worth visiting, since it’s one of the best views of Vancouver!

Trust me, the elevated views of downtown are spectacular from this park. 

• Directions and parking information can be found here.
• Ticket information for entry into Bloedel Conservatory can be found here. 
• Dining and reservation information for the Seasons in the Park restaurant can be found here.

If you have time, I also recommend visiting the VanDusen Botanical Gardens.

While there is an entry fee, this is another gorgeous park in Vancouver that is worth checking out for its lake, tranquil meditation garden, and maze that you can walk through. It’s only a 4-minute drive away from Queen Elizabeth Park.

• Admission fee information can be found here.
• Hours and ticket information can be found here.

See more stunning skyline views from Kitsilano Beach, Jericho Beach Park, or Spanish Banks Beach (Optional)

Another reason why I love Vancouver is because of how many opportunities there are to see the skyline from different angles.

You saw the beauty of Vancouver yesterday at English Bay, but Kitsilano Beach, Jericho Beach, and Spanish Banks Beach are also incredible spots for hanging out at and admiring the city and mountain views. 

If you don’t have time, skip this and move onto the next destination. But if you can, at least stop by one of the beaches.

Visit the Museum of Anthropology 

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the First Nations at the Museum of Anthropology.

The First Nations collectively make up the different groups of Indigenous people who are the original inhabitants of Canada, and their cultures span over thousands of years.

The Museum of Anthropology represents Canada’s West Coast through its displays of artifacts, crafts, and gigantic sculptures. The museum itself is also physically beautiful, with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer a view of the inlet, neighboring islands, and mountains in the distance.

I recommend spending at least a couple of hours here to get a fulfilling experience.

While you’re here on the campus grounds of the University of British Columbia (UBC), you might have already noticed how beautiful the campus is.

Vancouver is a popular setting for movie and TV show directors, and UBC is the 9th-most popular filming location in the world. The movie X-Men Origins: Wolverine and the TV series Supernatural have both been filmed on campus. Feel free to roam around and check out the campus!

Have dinner and bubble tea in Richmond

About 30 minutes, and you’ll arrive to the south suburbs of Vancouver: Richmond. Richmond has the highest immigrant population in British Columbia, and over half of its population is Chinese.

The food culture is undoubtedly strongly influenced by the Chinese, making Richmond renowned for having some of the best Chinese food. 

There are over 800 restaurants in Richmond, which means I would be doing a disservice to Richmond if I only shared one recommendation. This was difficult, but I’ve narrowed my list to five of my favorite Chinese restaurants in no particular order: 

• Shanghai River: Serves Shanghainese food (which comes from Shanghai, China’s largest city by population)—You must order the soup dumplings! 
• HK BBQ Master: Vancouver’s best Chinese-style soy sauce chicken, barbeque duck, and crispy roast pork.  
• Xi’an Cuisine (Located inside the Richmond Public Market): If you are craving noodles, this is where you get your fix. Plus, it’s extremely affordable. Just make sure you have cash on you as it is cash only.
• R&H Chinese Food (Located inside the Lansdowne Centre): Large, hand-made, delicious dumplings. You’d never expect food court food to be this good.
• Kirin Seafood Restaurant: It’s a little pricier, but it has high-quality, authentic dishes like braised fished and slow-cooked meats. You must order the Peking Duck! Table reservation information can be found here.

You haven’t completed your Richmond experience without boba, or as it’s commonly called by Vancouverites, bubble tea.

Bubble tea is a tea-based, sweet beverage filled with chewy tapioca pearls. There’s usually a seemingly endless menu of flavors to choose from, and the fun part with most bubble tea shops is that you can adjust the drink to your liking.

Whether you want it less sweet, blended with ice into a slush, or with the addition of other tasty toppings, it’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too full.

Here’s are my top three recommendations for bubble tea in Richmond:

• Tiger Sugar: Order the Brown Sugar Milk Tea!
• Mr Mustache Bubble Tea: It might sound bizarre, but this is just one of those things where you can’t knock it until you try it—Order your tea with cheese foam. It combines salty and sweet flavors, kind of like salted caramel. 
• The Bubble Tea Shop: I know this was strictly for bubble tea recommendations, but besides quality bubble tea, this shop also serves delicious bubble waffles.

Wind down in Steveston

South of Richmond is Steveston, a quaint fishing village notable for its Fisherman’s Wharf where you can buy fresh catches of fish.

It’s also known for the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site where you can walk through and learn about the preserved and restored community of canneries, shipyards, and stores dating back to the 1800s. 

Draw your evening to a close by going for a serene stroll around Garry Point Park. Although you won’t see the downtown skyline views from here, you will behold a delightful contrast in scenery with the park’s vast open lands and fishing boats gently teetering in the harbor.

Even in the suburbs away from the city, Vancouver’s trademark peaks can still be seen in the distance. The mountains are an embodiment of vitality, adventure, and beauty—all of which you’ve absorbed in the past two days. This is the true Vancouverite experience!

Additional Points of Interest in Vancouver: Itinerary Extras

Since this is a 2 day Vancouver itinerary best suited for a weekend trip, I had to leave out other visiting points as it would require more time to travel to and get the most out of these places.

They’re technically not part of Vancouver since they’re further away, but they’re still worth checking out while you’re in Vancouver. If you are visiting for longer than two days, I highly recommend visiting the following places:

• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: It’s not the cheapest, but it’s something worth doing at least once to cross it off your bucket list. The suspension bridge will take you across the Capilano River and through the forest. If you’re afraid of heights, this may not be for you because you will be 230 feet high up among the treetops.
• Grouse Grind at the Grouse Mountain: This is not for the faint of heart. If you love exercise and physical fitness challenges, the Grouse Grind will take you up the steep face of Grouse Mountain in 1.8 miles. It’s not a long distance, but the incline is the challenge, as there is a total of 2,830 stairsteps you must climb up to reach the peak. Alternatively, you can ride the gondola up to the top to explore the attractions and other mountaintop trails that are less difficult.
• Whistler: If you’ve ever seen the town of Banff, Canada, you’ll notice the striking resemblances it has to Whistler. Whistler is a popular destination for winter activities and has the largest ski resort in North America (it also held the 2010 Winter Olympics). To get to Whistler, you drive up the BC Highway 99, also known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway. The drive to Whistler on the Sea-to-Sky Highway is like the Canadian version of road tripping through California’s coastline on the Pacific Coast Highway—it has endless spectacular ocean views. Even during the warm summer season, there are still plenty of outdoor activities you can do in Whistler.

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Because I lived in Vancouver, I never had the need to find a hotel. But my visiting friends and family had almost always chosen Airbnb as the more affordable option. 

The bulk of hotels in Vancouver are located downtown, while some are located in Richmond near the airport. For this itinerary, either downtown or near the YVR airport in Richmond are ideal locations for completing this itinerary.

Here are a few suggestions!

• Chic Downtown Condo: This spacious loft-style one-bedroom Airbnb is a fantastic choice for those who want to be in the heart of it all. Gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows allow in tons of natural light and offer sweeping Vancouver views, while being easily walkable to all points downtown.
• Gastown Converted Loft: This open, spacious space has serious Brooklyn loft vibes. Complete with a modern kitchen, high ceilings, exposed brick and other lofty details, and a cozy private bedroom, this is a great choice for people who want some hipster flair to their accommodations while sticking to a budget. There’s also a rooftop lounge area! In the heart of Gastown and close to so many attractions!
• Two-Story Richmond Townhouse: For a stay in the heart of Vancouver’s hip (and delicious) Richmond area, this duplex is a fantastic choice. It’s budget-friendly and spacious (over 1000 square feet) with an outdoor patio space for relaxing. Close to all public transit, but also close to the international airport in case you are flying in and out of the city for this Vancouver weekend itinerary.

Weather in Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its year-round rainy weather, but the temperature is moderate as it rarely gets unbearably cold or hot (the temperature averages between 42 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit).

For this itinerary, I recommend visiting during the summer months when it’s the sunniest, warmest, and rains the least—from July to August. 

Whether or not you visit Vancouver during the drier months, I recommend packing layers like a waterproof and windproof jacket, rain boots, and comfortable and supportive walking shoes. And don’t forget your umbrella!

Safety in Vancouver

As mentioned throughout this Vancouer itinerary, the city is incredibly accessible.

It’s a safe city, despite having a few rough patches, and the transportation system here is reliable and easy to use.

I recommend familiarizing yourself with Vancouver’s Translink system by reading through their Rider Guide found on their website here.

Saving on Your Vancouver Itinerary

Vancouver is one of the more expensive cities to visit, but there are ways to make the most out of your trip even when you’re on a budget.

This is why I included many free activities and more reasonably priced places to eat at throughout this itinerary to make your trip more affordable! 

Staying at an Airbnb will also help to reduce your overall travel costs.

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Anchored by nearby Revelstoke Mountain Resort, the fast-growing outdoorsy town offers year-round thrills and family fun.

Not a skier? No worries. Summers in Interior BC offer just as much, if not more, adventure. World-class hiking, climbing, and dining await — here’s your ultimate summer in Revelstoke weekend itinerary!

Whether you’re visiting Revelstoke on its own or as part of a road trip from Vancouver to Calgary, there’s plenty to do in this charming town and neighboring National Park to fill 2-3 days, easily!

Your Perfect Weekend in Revelstoke: A 3 Day Itinerary

Friday

11 a.m. Explore Mount Revelstoke National Park

Pack a picnic lunch and head up Mount Revelstoke for the afternoon.

Access to the park is just off the Trans Canada Highway 3km outside of Revelstoke’s town center and parking is available after a scenic 26 kilometer drive up Meadows in the Sky Parkway.

Visiting the park is best during snow-free season of July through September when hikers can take full advantage of trail access. Shoot for July or August to catch the wildflowers in bloom.

Points of interest in the park include historic fire tower at summit, alpine lakes, and a memorial honoring Revelstoke’s rich history in ski-jumping.

4 p.m. Check-in at the Stoke Hotel or Poppy’s Guest House

Lodging options in the area run the gamut between car camping approved parking lots and the boutique Explorer’s Society Hotel.

If you are looking for something in the middle, try a room at the newly renovated Stoke Hotel or hostel-style Poppy’s Guest House.

Poppy’s tagline is “your gateway drug to Revelstoke” as it ends up being many traveler’s first stay in the area.

Each offers a walkable location to downtown and opportunities to meet other like-minded travelers.

5 p.m. Early dinner at Village Idiot Pizza

A meal at “the Idiot” is a must when traveling through Revelstoke. The menu has something for everyone but pizza and a caesar (Canadian for Bloody Mary, eh) is the way to go.

Grab a seat at the back porch railing and listen to passers-by to be in the know on happenings around town. Don’t skimp on the dipping sauces. Garlic aioli and the restaurant’s take on chalet sauce are crowd favorites.

6:30 p.m. Live Music at Grizzly Plaza

Pull up a plastic chair (they are provided by the city) and join literally everyone else in town for free live music. T

he Revelstoke Arts Council sponsors a new act each night during summer months and artists cover a full range of genres. 

If you fancy an ice cream, there are several options by the bandstand including The Roxy and The Sugar Shack. Take a jacket as the weather gets pleasantly crisp during summer nights.

Saturday

8 a.m. Bakery Breakfast

Breakfast and coffee options are plenty in the area and many spots bake their goods in house.

Dose and Modern Bakeshop are the easy places for a quick cup of coffee and meal to-go before the day’s outing. A croque monsieur (hot ham and cheese) is a Canadian staple worth waiting for in a brief line.

10 a.m. Downtown Farm and Craft Market

Meander through the closed-off streets near Grizzly Plaza and shop local selections of fruits, vegetables, baked goods, flowers, and local crafts.

You will find all the ingredients needed for a home-cooked meal if space allows at your hotel. If you do end up cooking yourself, supplement your picks with a meat selection from Ray’s Butcher Shop on nearby Victoria Road.

12 p.m. Head up to Revelstoke Mountain Resort for the afternoon

Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR) boasts the greatest vertical terrain in North America at 5,620 ft.

You’ll need to come back in the winter to access that descent, but you can still reach a good portion via the Revelation Gondola which operates year-round. A single gondola ticket can be purchased if you want to experience the view from mid-mountain.

From there, take your choice of mountain biking, hiking, or the mountain coaster for the way down. Grab lunch at the mountain base village before tackling your afternoon adventures. MacKenzie Tavern, La Baguette, and The Rockford are your go to’s there.

5 p.m. Cocktails and dinner

Hop into Quartermaster Eatery for some of the town’s best cocktails. Their barkeeps have perfected the smoky old fashioned.

 If you are staying for dinner, the cote de boeuf is worth every Canadian cent and is meant to share. If you prefer something more casual, cross the street to Pam’s Kitchen. They have some of the best curry around and the restaurant was just remodeled in 2019.

8 p.m. Late night fun

After good fare, head over for drop-in curling at the Revelstoke Curling Club where the beers are cheap and the curling is cheaper.  Get there early as the club caps capacity at about 40 people.

If you happen to be in town during the winter season, plan to attend a Grizzlies’ game. The local Junior B ice hockey team typically has sell-out crowds and games are a community event.  

If you’re a late-night socialite, slide into Traverse, the town’s only nightclub.  It usually gets geared up around 11 p.m. and is a great way to groove the night away. 

Sunday

10 a.m. Ease into Sunday

Sunday mornings are laid back in Revelstoke.

The regular coffee spots are buzzing and it’s the perfect time to window shop, visit one of the town’s several parks, or take a 30-minute walk on the Big Eddy Greenway or the Illecillewaet Bridge Trail, both walking trails near the city center with views of Mount Begbie and the Illecillewaet and Columbia Rivers.

Alternately, hop in your car and drive to Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail in Revelstoke National Park, a beautiful rainforest walk just outside the city.

12 p.m. Lunch in Big Eddy & McPherson Trails

Big Eddy Pub, across the Columbia River from Revy, has all one could want for Sunday lunch and they specialize in smoked meats.  You’ll be sure to meet a few folks fresh off of the nearby McPherson mountain biking trails. 

There is easy trailhead access if you venture over to the trails yourself to hike or bike.  Make sure to take the detour to Begbie Falls.

5 p.m. Movie Night

Grabbing a movie at Roxy is a perfect way to wind down an epic weekend in Revelstoke.  They usually have two different movies playing each week, and you can check their website or marquee for details.

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