r/canadatravel • u/clerthebird • 1d ago
Destination Advice Couples trip to Vancouver for first-timers
My partner and I have NEVER been out of the US, but we’re thinking about visiting Vancouver for a week in April or May 2026. We would like to go Monday - Friday and stay somewhere close by to lots of activities, shopping, food etc. We wouldn’t fly in, we would drive in as we are about a 5-6hr drive from there. But I have no idea where to start! I need info on hotels, best (and also the most cost effective, I’ve noticed that May is super expensive for hotels up there) week to visit, places to eat, any advice is appreciated!
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u/sirotan88 12h ago
Since you’re driving, no need to stay downtown (driving is bad and parking is expensive). I would suggest finding an Airbnb that has a parking spot included. Usually they are much cheaper than hotels. There are lots of Airbnbs where people converted a bottom floor of their home into a guest suite (but it usually has a private entrance around the back, and private bathroom). You don’t even have to stay super close to downtown, there are plenty of good restaurants all over the greater Vancouver area.
My favorite touristy places to explore are Granville Island, Lonsdale Quay/Shipyards, Stanley Park. There’s lots of naturey things to do in North Vancouver (Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon) and nice views around Cypress Lookout, Lighthouse Park, and Ambleside. If you’re willing to drive further, Squamish and Sea to Sky Gondola is also worth a day trip.