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Vancouver British Columbia

Updated on December 3, 2023

Vancouver BC

Vancouver is considered one of the best cities in the world because of its relaxing approach with nature, wilderness and its exquisite mix of multicultural traditions.

Located on the Pacific coast in the Province of British Columbia, Canada, the city is surrounded by the Fraser River, mountains, forests, and sea; offering a beautiful view whichever way you turn. You will always be close to nature and this is why Vancouverites enjoy outdoor activities as a very important part of their high quality everyday life.

On this page you will find works created by different photographers and artists, including myself. All images are copyrighted to their own authors. They may not be totally or partialy used, without prior authorization.

How to get to Vancouver

Road, Air or Sea

To get to Vancouver you can fly on any of the international airlines that arrive to its two international airports: Vancouver International Airport and Abbotsford International Airport.

You can also arrive to any of the various alternative airports like the Langley Regional Airport or the Boundary Bay Airport.

Vancouver and British Columbia Map Design Malu Couttolenc
Vancouver and British Columbia Map Design Malu Couttolenc

To visit from the US by road, coming from Washington State, take Highway 13 North along Bellingham's Guide Meridian. If you live in other states you can find very inexpensive flights arriving to the airport in Bellingham, only 45 miles away from Vancouver.

Cruise lines also offer exciting cruises departing from California and Alaska.

Vancouver a Multicultural City

A rich mix of cultures and traditions


The Official Languages are English and French, but as you walk around the city, you will always hear many others, like Chinese and Farsi.

Vancouver is home to multiple ethnic groups, Chinese and Indian are the second and third largest communities followed by other European, Asian and Latin American groups.

This rich and wonderful mix of cultures and traditions, reflected on the variety of international cuisine available, makes of Vancouver BC a wonderful city to explore.

I invite you to join me for a tour around the city, take a glance at the best things to do, and see why Vancouver is one of my favorite cities.

Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc
Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc

Did you know that Vancouver is considered one of the top 5 livable cities in the world?

Vancouver: Places to See and Visit - Culture and Entertainment

Click thumbnail to view full-size
Science WorldBC PlaceBiking is a very popular activity among VancouveritesSculpture at English BayVancouver Sightseeing Tours are offered at different points around the city
Science World
Science World
BC Place
BC Place
Biking is a very popular activity among Vancouverites
Biking is a very popular activity among Vancouverites
Sculpture at English Bay
Sculpture at English Bay
Vancouver Sightseeing Tours are offered at different points around the city
Vancouver Sightseeing Tours are offered at different points around the city

Vancouver Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities are popular among Vancouverites and visitors always join them at the two most popular spots, English Bay and Stanley Park. On a sunny day you will find them walking, jogging, bicycling or rollerblading on the Sea Wall, a surrounding path that connects these two beautiful landmarks.

Stanley Park activities Photo Malu Couttolenc
Stanley Park activities Photo Malu Couttolenc

English Bay

The perfect spot for relaxation

If you want to relax, read a book, go for a swim or enjoy beautiful sunsets while you have a drink at one of its multiple international cuisine restaurants, English Bay is the place to be!

Boats at English Bay Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc
Boats at English Bay Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc

Photo enthusiasts, like me, will find a great diversity of subjects. That's where I took one of my all-time favorite photos "Sunset through Art"

"Sunset through Art"

"Sunset through Art"
"Sunset through Art" | Source

The magical atmosphere of English Bay added to the beauty of Stanley Park make them a "must visit" when you're in Vancouver

English Bay Photo Tour - Fun for all ages

Click thumbnail to view full-size
The Inukshuk (Inuit Language) is a world famous symbol and landmark. The word means "Friend"English Bay is a beautiful area to go for a walk and other outdoor activitiesJust sit and relax while you watch boats and sailboats pass byVancouverites enjoy picnics at English Bay on sunny daysSunsets are lovely at English Bay, the perfect way to finish your day. This photo is called "Flight by the Sunset"
The Inukshuk (Inuit Language) is a world famous symbol and landmark. The word means "Friend"
The Inukshuk (Inuit Language) is a world famous symbol and landmark. The word means "Friend" | Source
English Bay is a beautiful area to go for a walk and other outdoor activities
English Bay is a beautiful area to go for a walk and other outdoor activities | Source
Just sit and relax while you watch boats and sailboats pass by
Just sit and relax while you watch boats and sailboats pass by | Source
Vancouverites enjoy picnics at English Bay on sunny days
Vancouverites enjoy picnics at English Bay on sunny days | Source
Sunsets are lovely at English Bay, the perfect way to finish your day. This photo is called "Flight by the Sunset"
Sunsets are lovely at English Bay, the perfect way to finish your day. This photo is called "Flight by the Sunset" | Source
View of Jericho Beach
View of Jericho Beach

Kitsilano and other beaches in English Bay

Jericho, Locarno and Spanish Banks

Kitsilano is a very nice shopping and dining area. You can have dinner at one of its multiple international cuisine restaurants, or just a snack or pastry at a one of its coffee shops and bakeries.

To get to Kitsilano, drive along West 4th Avenue and West Broadway, continue on these avenues towards marine Drive and you'll reach lovely beaches like Jericho, Locarno and Spanish Banks, where you will be able to spend a beautiful day.

In this area you will also find the University of British Columbia (UBC), one of the several universities in Vancouver.

Sailboat Jericho Beach Vancouver photo Malu Couttolenc
Sailboat Jericho Beach Vancouver photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

Stanley Park

Fun for all ages

Stanley Park is a beautiful place to spend the day with lots of outdoor and indoor activities for all ages.

Stanley Park Photo Malu Couttolenc
Stanley Park Photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

Children will enjoy their day playing at the multiple spring water parks and playgrounds, or visiting the petting zoo.

The Totem Poles at Stanley Park are British Columbia's most visitied attraction.

Prospect Point Stanley Park Photo Malu Couttolenc
Prospect Point Stanley Park Photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

The highest spot in Stanley Park is Prospect Point. Enjoy gorgeous panoramic views of Vancouver's North Shore mountains and the Lion's Gate Bridge or Burrard Inlet while you try the famous fudge or the traditional Prospect Point ice cream.

Sunset at "Prospect Point Lookout" at Stanley Park

Sunset at "Prospect Point Lookout" at Stanley Park
Sunset at "Prospect Point Lookout" at Stanley Park | Source

Stanley Park Virtual Tour

Click thumbnail to view full-size
A view of Vancouver from English BayBoats and sailboats add a colourful touch to the harbourThe Sea Wall is a perfect spot to practice outdoor activities like walking, jogging, running, bicycling or rollerblading.Stanley Park has several parking lots but you can also take the park bus or horse pulled carriagesChildren will have a great time at the different spring water parks and playgroundsA a view of the Sea Wall at Stanley ParkWonderful scenery from the Sea WallAutumn is a beautiful time of the year to visit Vancouver. The colors of the fall add a beautiful contrast with the blue of the water and skyNative Totem Poles are a very interesting feature at Stanley ParkA lovely sunset at Prospect Point
A view of Vancouver from English Bay
A view of Vancouver from English Bay | Source
Boats and sailboats add a colourful touch to the harbour
Boats and sailboats add a colourful touch to the harbour | Source
The Sea Wall is a perfect spot to practice outdoor activities like walking, jogging, running, bicycling or rollerblading.
The Sea Wall is a perfect spot to practice outdoor activities like walking, jogging, running, bicycling or rollerblading. | Source
Stanley Park has several parking lots but you can also take the park bus or horse pulled carriages
Stanley Park has several parking lots but you can also take the park bus or horse pulled carriages | Source
Children will have a great time at the different spring water parks and playgrounds
Children will have a great time at the different spring water parks and playgrounds | Source
A a view of the Sea Wall at Stanley Park
A a view of the Sea Wall at Stanley Park | Source
Wonderful scenery from the Sea Wall
Wonderful scenery from the Sea Wall | Source
Autumn is a beautiful time of the year to visit Vancouver. The colors of the fall add a beautiful contrast with the blue of the water and sky
Autumn is a beautiful time of the year to visit Vancouver. The colors of the fall add a beautiful contrast with the blue of the water and sky | Source
Native Totem Poles are a very interesting feature at Stanley Park
Native Totem Poles are a very interesting feature at Stanley Park | Source
A lovely sunset at Prospect Point
A lovely sunset at Prospect Point | Source

Encouraging a Healthy Lifestyle

On June 22, 2010, the Vancouver City Council, enacted a non-smoking by-law in all parks.

Vancouver Aquarium Entrance
Vancouver Aquarium Entrance | Source

The Vancouver Aquarium

Fun and Educational

At the Vancouver Aquarium, be sure to book for a "Get up close Adventure" with dolphins and belugas. Other fun activities are dolphin, seal and beluga shows and 3D movies. Learn about the marine habitats, have a close encounter with sharks, turtles, and many other species.

Just outside the Vancouver Aquarium, get your picture drawn by one of the talented artists or have fun watching jugglers and buskers.

Artists waiting to draw your picture

Artists waiting to draw your picture
Artists waiting to draw your picture

A busker performs at Vancouver Aquarium

A busker performs at Vancouver Aquarium
A busker performs at Vancouver Aquarium
Capilano Susension Bridge by Malu Couttolenc
Capilano Susension Bridge by Malu Couttolenc | Source

Exciting Adventures in Vancouver BC

Capilano Suspension Bridge

A famous attraction in Vancouver is the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It is 450 feet long, and it crosses 230 feet above the Capilano River!

You will never regret taking this breathtaking adventure. Once you've made it to the other side, you will enjoy the Treetops Adventure, a walk along 7 suspension bridges above a beautiful forest. At Capilano you can learn about native art and history and see multiple Totem poles

Just a few minutes from Capilano, you will reach Grouse Mountain. Take the gondola ride to the "Peak of Vancouver". Have dinner while you enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city. Grouse Mountain is a wonderful spot for downhill skiing during the winter and fantastic hiking trails and wildlife watching during the summer.

Flanking Grouse are Mount Seymour and Cypress Bowl, two additional beautiful skiing areas. The latter is famous for cross country skiing, and for hosting the free style downhill skiing competition during 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games.

Attractions at Capilano: Photos Malu Couttolenc
Attractions at Capilano: Photos Malu Couttolenc | Source

Are you afraid of heights?

Would you be willing to cross Capilano Bridge?

See results

The Greater Vancouver Zoo - Learn how to protect endangered species

Painting at Vancouver Zoo Photo Malu Couttolenc
Painting at Vancouver Zoo Photo Malu Couttolenc

Painting at the entrance of the Greater Vancouver Zoo

Photo by Malu Couttolenc

The Greater Vancouver Zoo in Aldergrove, is the largest zoo in British Columbia.

The Vancouver Zoo offers different activities like shows, lion and tiger feeding or sit at its beautiful gardens by the ponds.

Go on a public or private safari. Experienced guides will drive you around as they tell you about all animals and species. Watch shows, ride the mini train or rent a quadracycle.

Special events like weddings and birthday parties can also be hosted at the zoo.

Live a very unique overnight experience by group. Schedule a Night in the Wild

Get ready for your holidays at Vancouver

Nikon D5100 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S Nikkor Zoom Lens (OLD MODEL)
Nikon D5100 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S Nikkor Zoom Lens (OLD MODEL)
- 3-inch, 921,000-dot Super-Density horizontal type Vari-Angle LCD Monitor - In-camera Special Effects Mode, 1 Yr Camera / 5 Yrs Lens - In-camera HDR (High Dynamic Range) - Stunning Full 1080p HD Movies with Full Time Autofocus - ISO Sensitivity: 100-6400 (Extended Mode: 100-25600)
 
Nikon 7234 Action 10-22 X 50mm Binoculars
Nikon 7234 Action 10-22 X 50mm Binoculars
- 10-22x50 Action Zoom XL Binocular
 
Sony DSC-W350 14.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Zoom with Optical Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch LCD (Black)
Sony DSC-W350 14.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Zoom with Optical Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch LCD (Black)
Make sure you have the best equipment when you travel. Don'tmiss anything! This fanstastic camera allows you take 360° shots with its sweep feature.
 
The Whistler Book: An All-Season Outdoor Guide
The Whistler Book: An All-Season Outdoor Guide
If you visit Vancouver, go to Whistler it is only 2 hours away! There are amazing activities all year round.
 
Salmon: A Cookbook
Salmon: A Cookbook
Make the best out of your salmon with this great recipe book.
 
Photo Malu Couttolenc
Photo Malu Couttolenc

Dining, shopping and more in Vancouver

Granville Island, Gastown and other neighborhoods

As mentioned, Vancouver is a multicultural city. This extends to the variety of restaurants and shopping options that you will find when visiting the city.

In this section, explore two unique areas: Granville Island, Gastown and other neighborhoods. 

While visiting these wonderful neighborhoods, you will find all kinds of shops, international cuisine restaurants, museums, and other attractions for the whole family.


Statue of Jack "Gassy" Deighton
Statue of Jack "Gassy" Deighton

Gastown

The Oldest Part of Town

Gastown is the oldest part of Vancouver. Nowadays, it is a mix of old and new. This part of town is named after Jack "Gassy Jack" Deighton, who built the first bar in Vancouver.

Gastown's cobblestone streets are full of beautiful souvenir, clothing, and art shops as well as world cuisine restaurants.

The Steam Clock is the most famous attraction. It whistles and steams every 15 minutes. You can watch its mechanism through a glass window. It is a favorite photo subject of photos among both locals and visitors.

Visit Gastown in Photos - A very unique and cozy part of Vancouver

Click thumbnail to view full-size
The Steam Clock steams and whistles every 15 minutes. it is gastown's most famous attraction.Gastown is the oldest part of VancouverIt's cobblestones streets are full of shops and restaurantsGastown still has its old trolley a nice way to move around the cityInternational cuisine restaurants are a delight at Gastown
The Steam Clock steams and whistles every 15 minutes. it is gastown's most famous attraction.
The Steam Clock steams and whistles every 15 minutes. it is gastown's most famous attraction. | Source
Gastown is the oldest part of Vancouver
Gastown is the oldest part of Vancouver | Source
It's cobblestones streets are full of shops and restaurants
It's cobblestones streets are full of shops and restaurants | Source
Gastown still has its old trolley a nice way to move around the city
Gastown still has its old trolley a nice way to move around the city | Source
International cuisine restaurants are a delight at Gastown
International cuisine restaurants are a delight at Gastown | Source

Granville Island

Granville Island is fun to visit. You can attend concerts, music festivals, art exhibitions and other events.

Visit art workshops and see the artists working at crafts, you can learn to do them as well!

Grandville Island Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc
Grandville Island Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

If you're traveling with children, don't miss visiting the Kids Only Market where the little ones will spend a wonderful time.

Children's Market Grandville Island Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc
Children's Market Grandville Island Vancouver Photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

Multiple restaurants on the deck and the local brewery make of Granville Island a world class place for dinner.

At the market, you will find fruits vegetables and fresh fish and delicious salmon. They can even pack your salmon ready for traveling!

Granville Island Showcase - Things to see and do

Click thumbnail to view full-size
The Market at Granville Island is great for buying fresh fish, fruits and vegetablesArt galleries and workshops in Granville IslandRestaurants and coffee shops at Granville IslandColorful houses at Granville IslandThe Aquabus goes from two different spots in Vancouver to Granville Island.
The Market at Granville Island is great for buying fresh fish, fruits and vegetables
The Market at Granville Island is great for buying fresh fish, fruits and vegetables | Source
Art galleries and workshops in Granville Island
Art galleries and workshops in Granville Island | Source
Restaurants and coffee shops at Granville Island
Restaurants and coffee shops at Granville Island | Source
Colorful houses at Granville Island
Colorful houses at Granville Island | Source
The Aquabus goes from two different spots in Vancouver to Granville Island.
The Aquabus goes from two different spots in Vancouver to Granville Island. | Source
Vancouver's Chinatown
Vancouver's Chinatown | Source

Chinatown and Little Italy

Great places for international cuisine and shopping

If you like International food but are not sure which to pick, visit nearby Little Italy, centered on Commercial Drive, where you will find several options like Italian, Spanish and Portuguese cuisines.

Vancouver's Chinatown, located just south of Main and Hastings, is a fantastic place to visit on a tour and go shopping. Taste delicious Asian dishes, very popular among Vancouverites.

While shopping, you will find all kinds of Chinese products for home decoration, clothing, food or cooking and restaurant supplies. It is a place that you should not miss.

Vancouver China Town Photo Malu Couttolenc
Vancouver China Town Photo Malu Couttolenc | Source

Fodor's Vancouver & Victoria: with Whistler, Vancouver Island & the Okanagan Valley (Full-color Travel Guide)

Fodor's Vancouver & Victoria: with Whistler, Vancouver Island & the Okanagan Valley (Full-color Travel Guide)
Fodor's Vancouver & Victoria: with Whistler, Vancouver Island & the Okanagan Valley (Full-color Travel Guide)
The best guide to get around Vancouver, Victoria, surrounding cites and parks. Great information about things to do, shopping, nightlife. Interestng facts about British Columbia's Wildlife and more!
 

As you can see, Vancouver British Columbia is a fantastic city to live or visit. I hope you enjoyed the tour.

If you're still planning where to go on your next Holidays. Visit Vancouver British Columbia!., A wonderful experience that you will never forget.

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