Top Things to Do in Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, Canadá, is a coastal metropolis that seamlessly blends urban cosmopolitanism with natural charm. And if you've ever had the hankering to visit, you're in luck, as it features as a stop on Norwegian itineraries. Here, we've compiled a list of the top things to do in Vancouver to help you plan your time in the city, whether you're there for a single day at port, a multi-day cruisetour, or an extended stay after your cruise vacation.

Make Your Way to Stanley Park

Most people agree that Stanley Park is a must-see stop for anyone visiting Vancouver. Spanning 1,000 acres, the park is impossible to see in a single go, but its offerings are so expansive that even a highly limited and focused stopover would be worth it. Aside from park staples, such as playgrounds and tennis courts (of which it has 17), Stanley also has an aquarium, a pool, a splash park, botanical gardens, and beaches. Even the wildlife there is extraordinary, with bald eagles and whales being known to make appearances around the premises.

If you'd like to streamline your Stanley Park visit into a neat two-hour experience, check out our Tour por la ciudad de Vancouver shore excursion.

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Head Over to Granville Island

Once an industrial site, Granville Island underwent a transformation in the 1970s that would turn it into one of the most beloved public spaces in the city.

To borrow the words of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, which manages this public place, Granville Island today is Vancouver's "premier artistic and cultural hub," but that may be an understatement. It's almost like a city within a city, with shops, restaurants, galleries, and a public market serving as the backdrop to a lively cultural vibe. Whether you want to shop for souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or just revel in a new experience, Granville Island is the place to do it.

By the way, Granville Island, along with Stanley Park, is part of our Tour por la ciudad de Vancouver y traslado al aeropuerto shore excursion, making it easy for you to experience two of the city's great sights in a single go.

Hit Up Richmond Night Market

If you happen to be in town on a weekend between May and October, we highly recommend taking yourself to Richmond Night Market at some point during your visit. According to the market's official website, the energetic night markets of East Asia served as the inspiration for Richmond. The similarities are clear, as Richmond, like the markets of Hong Kong, is a rich mélange of sights, sounds, and tastes, with almost untold numbers of merchants, vendors, and entertainers vying for your attention.

Come hungry because the food options are vast and tempting. We're talking delicacies such as pork buns, roasted hocks, skewers, fusion tacos, roti mac and cheese, and a huge array of sweets. Once you have your food, find a place to enjoy the entertainment of your choice, whether that's music, dance, or martial arts.

Find One-Of-A-Kind Goods at the Pacific Arts Market

Because a city's art scene is a reflection of its culture and identity, we think a stop at the Pacific Arts Market is essential for truly acquainting yourself with Vancouver. In this approximately 2,500-square-foot gallery, you'll find a plethora of paintings, ceramics, carvings, crafts, and jewelry pieces made by local and regional artists. There's no better place for souvenirs, as the pieces are virtually all handmade and one-of-a-kind. Prices vary, too, so you're sure to find something that fits your budget.

Take the Journey to Grouse Mountain

Nicknamed the Peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is a haven for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. You have two options for ascending the mountain. One is the Skyride - an aerial tramway system that offers stunning views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding snowy peaks.

The other is the Grouse Grind, a 1.8-mile hiking trail. Once at the top, you have your choice of activities. Those with more casual constitutions may want to grab bites and drinks at Peak Chalet. The more adventurous types, though, could take advantage of the myriad seasonal activities at Grouse. In summer, there's ziplining, lumberjack shows, and grizzly bear-watching; in winter, snowshoeing and ice-skating - and that's just to name a few.

Traverse the Capilano Suspension Bridge

As long as you're not too afraid of heights, walking across the Capilano Suspension Bridge is an exciting and rewarding experience. Measuring 230 feet high and 450 feet across, Capilano overlooks a temperate rainforest along the city's North Shore. The bridge runs through the canopy of the forest, giving you a fuller view of the majesty of nature.

The bridge is part of a larger park complex that includes other nifty attractions, too, including a cantilevered walkway affixed to a granite cliff, a forest walk, and additional suspension bridges amid the treetops.

If you ask us, we'd say Vancouver is an underrated destination that should be on more people's radars. Hopefully, our recommendations help you experience the city to its fullest potential, or at least as much as possible in your given timeframe. Before you book your cruise, though, remember to check out our ofertas de cruceros so you enjoy the best value on cruising.